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( 4> *< 

HISTORY 



CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST 



LATTER-DAY SAINTS. 



PERIOD I. 

History of Joseph Smith, the Prophet. 



BY HIMSELF. 



VOLUME V. 



AN INTRODUCTION AND NOTES 

BY 

B. H. ROBERTS. 



PUBLISHED BY THE CHURCH. 



DESERET NEWS, 

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, 

19 09. 



Copyright by 

Joseph F. Smith 
for 

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST 

OF 

LATTER-DAY SAINTS. 

1909. 



"AftOLO ft. Ucfc LltJHAm 
IVOUNQUMVMmr 

fnOVO.UTAH 



CONTENTS. 



XV 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

STATE OF AFFAIRS IN NAUVOO— WILLARD RICHARDS — A POLITICAL TRICK — 
ILLINOIS STATE REGISTER — BURDEN OF THE PROPHETS MINISTRY- 
DISCOURSE — ENLARGEMENT OF MORMONISM — ' 'BOSTON BEE" — 
THE PROPHET ON POLITICS— DISCOURSE — MOVEMENTS OF 
THE APOSTLES. 

PAGE PAGE 

Letter of Willard Richards to Walker 521 

Brigham Young — Detailing Illness of the Prophet 522 

Current Events at Nauvoo.. 511 Meeting in Pittsburg 523 

The Thirty-eighth Vexatious Conference in Michigan 523 

Lawsuit 518 The Prophet's Altercation with 

Unwisdom of Elder Page 521 Bagby 524 

Political Debate, Hoge vs. 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

THE PROPHET ON THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF JUDGE ELIAS HIGBEE — 

LIFE AND RESURRECTION— EXPLANATION OF ELECTION DAY 

TROUBLES— GOVERNOR FORK'S REFUSAL TO PLAY INTO 

THE HANDS OF MISSOURI — ANTI-MORMON AGITATION 

AT CARTHAGE— ELDER JONATHAN DUNHAM'S 

REPORT OF HIS WESTERN EXPLORATIONS. 

The Prophet's Remarks at the Extracts from Journal of Elder 

Funeral of Judge Higbee... 529 Jonathan Dunham While 

The Prophet's Explanation of Engaged on an Exploration 

Election Day Troubles 531 in the Western Country 542 

Letter of J. Hall, Missouri, on Minutes of a Meeting of the 
the Recent Arrest and Trial Twelve in New York City... 550 

of the Prophet 538 Address of the Prophet — Sid- 
Editorial Comments of the ney Rigdon's Status — The 

Nauvoo Neighbor on the Priesthood Expounded 553 

Foregoing Letter 539 



INTRODUCTION TO VOLUME V. 

This volume deals with the History of the Church from May 3, 1842, 
to 31st of August, 1843. It, therefore, covers a period of about sixteen 
months. The main external events may be set down as follows: First, 
exposure of the wickedness of John C. Bennett, and his departure from 
Nauvoo; (2) the charge against the Prophet Joseph of complicity in an 
attempted assassination of Ex-governor Lilburn W. Boggs, under whose 
celebrated exterminating order the body of the Church was driven from 
Missouri; (3) the attempt of the state of Missouri to extradite the 
Prophet from the state of Illinois, to be tried as an accessory before the 
fact to an assault on ex-Governor Boggs; (4) a second attempt on the 
part of Missouri to extradite the Prophet from the state of Illinois on 
the old charge of "murder, treason, burglary, arson, larceny, theft 
and stealing," first brought against him in the year 1838; (5) a prelim- 
inary prospecting of the West, doubtless with a view to the contem- 
plated removal of the Saints to the Kocky Mountains. 

Of events that relate more nearly to the Church as an organization 
there should be mentioned: (1) the introduction of the endowment cere- 
monies and enlarged instruction on the subject of baptism for the dead; 
(2) an extension of auxiliary organization by bringing into existence 
the Young Men's and Women's Society. 

Another item of great interest in this volume is the manifest develop- 
ment of the character and spiritual strength of the Prophet during this 
period. The trying experiences through which he passed seemed to dis- 
cover new qualities of soul power within him, and to emphasize those 
which he was known to have possessed. 

The doctrinal development of the period covered by this volume deals 
with several items which may be regarded as preliminary to that richer 
unfolding of philosophical thought to which the last year of the Proph- 
et's teaching was so largely devoted. Let us now consider these several 
items more in detail. 

Br. JoJin C. Bennett. 

At the first glance it may be difficult to comprehend how a character 
like John C. Bennett could find favor and place with the Church of 



XVIII INTRODUCTION. 

Christ. There is a strong temptation, when the whole truth about this man 
is known, to regard him as an adventurer and a wicked man from the 
beginning. But those who had, perhaps, the best opportunity to know 
him held that his motives for coming to Nauvoo were honest, that hi<* 
intentions in life at that time were honorable, but that he fell into 
transgression and would not repent. Such were the views of John Taylor, 
who was closely associated with Bennett in affairs at Nauvoo (see foot 
note, pages 80 and SI this volume); and the Lord in the revelation 
given on the 19th of January, 1841, accepts of him and speaks approv- 
ingly of Bennett's love for the work: "And for his love he shall be 
great. * * * * * j k ave seen ^he wor k which he hath done, 
which I accept, if he continue, and will crown him with blessings 
and great glory." (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 124; 17.) 

It cannot be otherwise, then, but that John <J. Bennett in coming to 
the Saints did so out of love for the work, had a desire to work 
righteousness but was among those who failed — he did not "continue" 
in his right intentions. It is possible even for men whose lives are not 
above reproach to feel indignation at acts of injustice, such as was per- 
petrated upon the Latter-day Saints by the state of Missouri; and sure 
it is that John C. Bennett expressed himself very pronouncedly against 
the injustice suffered by the Church at the hands of the officers and 
people of that state, and he "proffered his military knowledge and 
prowess" to the Saints while the latter were yet in Missouri, but under- 
going expulsion. His proposal was to go to their assistance with all 
the forces he could raise in Illinois, as "his bosom swelled with indig- 
nation" at the treatment the Saints were receiving at the hands of the 
cruel and cowardly Missourians. That proffered service, however, was 
not accepted; doubtless because the Saints depended for vindication of 
their reputation, and redress of their wrongs upon the officers of the 
state and nation, rather than upon incensed persons, however sincere 
and well meaning, who offered their service to wage war upon their 
enemies. But after the Saints bagan gathering at Commerce, Bennett 
again expressed a desire to connect his fortunes with them. When he 
contemplated removing to Commerce, he held the position of quarter- 
master-general in the militia of the state of Illinois, a position he did 
not wish to resign. Indeed he expressed a desire to hold the position 
for a number of years. He was also a physician with an extensive prac- 
tice, and forwarded extracts to the Prophet from the Louisville Courier- 
Journal which gave evidence of high standing in his profession. Writ- 
ing of these things to Joseph, he said: 

I do not expect to resign my office of quartermaster-general of the 
state of Illinois, in the event of my removal to Commerce, unless you 
advise otherwise. I shall likewise expect to practice my profession, but 



INTRODUCTION. XIX 

at the same time your people shall have all the benefit of my speaking 
powers, and my untiring energies in behalf of the good and holy faith. 

In a communication following the one from which I make the above 
quotation he said : 

You are aware that at the time of your most bitter persecution, I 
was with you in feeling, and proffered you my military knowledge and 
powers. 

While Joseph extended a hearty welcome to the Doctor to come to 
Commerce, he by no means held out any very flattering inducements to 
him, as may be seen by his letters in answer to Bennett's expressing 
his determination to join the Saints. The Prophet said: 

I have no doubt that you would be of great service to this community 
in practicing your profession, as well as those other abilities of which 
you are in possession. Though to devote your time and abilities in the 
cause of truth and a suffering people, may not be the means of exalting 
you in the eyes of this generation, or securing you the riches of this 
world, yet by so doing you may rely on the approval of Jehovah, "that 
blessing which maketh rich and addeth no sorrow." ****** 
Therefore, my general invitation is, let all who will come, come and 
partake of the poverty of Nauvoo, freely. I should be disposed to give 
you a special invitation to come as early as possible, believing you will 
be of great service to us. However, you must make your own arrange- 
ments according to your circumstances. Were it possible for you to 
come here this season to suffer affliction with the people of God, no one 
will be more pleased to give you a cordial welcome than myself. 

Surely this was frank enough, and ought to have dispelled from the 
Doctor's mind all thoughts of winning worldly fame, or gratifying vain 
ambition, by linking his fortunes with those of the Church of Jesus 
Christ. The whole course of the Prophet here outlined, and as further 
set forth in the parts of this volume dealing with the case of John C. 
Bennett, vindicates him and the Church from any complicity with the 
wickedness and vileness of that man. 

Bennett's attempted vindication of his course of procedure, and his 
defense against the action of the Church in exposing his wickedness 
and excommunicating him is, that from the beginning he came amongst 
the Saints as a spy, to become acquainted with their alleged treasonable 
designs against several of the western states, for the purpose of expos- 
ing them; all which is set forth in a note at pp, 79, 80 of this volume. 
All this was ridiculous; and the whole presentation of this view of the 
matter in his book under the pompous title, The History of the Saints; 
or An Expose of Joe Smith and Mormonism* convinced nobody, since 
Bennett's insincerity and putridity of mind is evidenced upon 

» Published in Boston, 1842. 



XX INTRODUCTION. 

every page of his repulsive book. "The role of traitor," says H, 
H. Bancroft, in his history of Utah, dealing with John C. Bennett: — 

The role of traitor is not one which in any wise brings credit to the 
performer, either from one side or the other. However great the ser- 
vice he may render ns, we cannot but feel that he is false hearted and 
vile. Many of the apostates, though they may not have written books, 
declare that they joined the sect only to learn their secrets and then ex- 
pose them. These are the most contemptible of all. There may be 
cases, where a young or inexperienced person, through ignorance or 
susceptibility, has been carried away for a time contrary to the dictates 
of cooler judgment; but the statements of such persons are justly re- 
garded with more or less suspicion. Far better is it, far more honest 
and praiseworthy, for him who, having unwittingly made a mistake, 
seeks to rectify it, to go his way and say nothing about it; for if he 
talks of writing a book for the good of others, as a warning, and that 
they may avoid his errors, few will believe him. "If he has proved 
traitor once,' 7 they say, "he will deceive again; and if he is sincere, 
we cannot more than half believe him, for such an individual is never 
sure of himself." JohnC. Bennett, general, doctor, methodist preacher, 
and quack, is from his own showing a bad man. He devotes some fifty 
pages to the vindication of his character, which would not be necessary 
were he honest; other fifty are given to defaming his late worshipful 
patron Joseph Smith, which would never have been written were he 
true. When a man thrusts in your face three-score certificates of his 
good character, each signed by from one to a dozen persons, you may 
know that he is a very great rascal. Nor are we disappointed here. 
This author is a charlatan, pure and simple; such was he when he joined 
the Mormons, and before and after. We may credit him fully when he 
says, "I never believed in them or their doctrines; " although in a letter 
to Dr. Dyer, dated Nauvoo, Jan. 20, 1842, he declares: "My heart is 
filled with indignation, and my blood boils within me, when I contem- 
plate the vast injustice and cruelty which Missouri has meted out to the 
great philantnropist and devout Christian, General Joseph Smith, and 
his honest and faithful adherents." When, however, he affects patriot- 
ism and lofty devotion to the welfare of his fellow-men, pretending to 
have joined the society in order to frustrate "a daring and colossal 
scheme of rebellion and usurpation throughout the north-western states, 
. . . . a despotic military and religious empire, the head of which, 
as emperor and pope, was to be Joseph Smith," we know that the 
writer is well aware that it is all nonsense. Nor do we believe that he 
was induced to print his book "by a desire to expose the enormous in- 
iquities which have been perpetrated by one of the grossest and most 
infamous impostors that ever appeared upon the face of the earth." 
We have heard and are still hearing so mu^h of that kind of talk from 
some of the worst men in the community that it is becoming somewhat 
stale, and if the general really does not know better than this why he 
wrote his book, perhaps he will excuse me for telling him that it was, 
first, for notoriety; second, for money; and third, in order to make 
people think him a better and greater man than he is. When a man's 
ambition is pitched so low, it is a pity that he should not have the grati- 
fication of success. Bravely, then, the geueral proceeded to offer him- 
self on the altar of his country, "to overthrow the impostor and expose 



INTRODUCTION. XXI 

his iniquity" by "professing himself a convert to his doctrines;" for 
"the fruition of his hopeful project would, of course, have been pre- 
ceded by plunder, devastation, and bloodshed, and by all the countless 
horrors which invariably accompany civil war." We are still more im- 
pressed when we read: "I was quite aware of the danger I ran" — that 
of being kicked out of some back door — "but none of these things de- 
terred me." Without wasting more time and space upon the man, we 
are well enough prepared to place a proper estimate upon his state- 
ments, particularly when we take into account that, in May of the very 
year in which his book was published, he went before Alderman Wells 
and made affidavit that Joseph Smith was an honest, virtuous, sincere, 
high-minded, and patriotic man. He says himself that he solemnly 
swore to be true to the Mormons and not reveal their secrets, and now 
in breaking that oath he has the audacity to ask us to regard him as an 
honest and truthfnl man! In some measure, at least, the statements 
of such men as this, taken up by the press and people, and reiterated 
throughout the land, have given the Latter-day Saints a worse name 
than they deserve. Some of his charges are too coarse and filthy for 
repetition." * 

The only description I have seen of Dr. Bennett is given in the Essex 
County Washingtonian, published in Salem, Massachusetts, and that is 
contained in the issue of the fifteenth of September, 1842. According^ 
Ao that description/he was a man of about five feet nine inches high, j 
/ well formed, black nair sprinkled wjth gray, dark complexion, a rather / 
( thin face, and black restless eyes. 

Hejiflally died J in obscurity, and also, it is said, in poverty, (Cannon's 
Life of Jo^e7n~Smrth,"pT377). 

The Attempted Assassination of Ex- Governor Boggs 
of Missouri. 

When an attempt was made to assassinate ex-Governor Boggs of Mis- 
souri it was perhaps to be expected that suspicion would fall upon the 
Mormon people and upon the head of Joseph Smith especially. Surely 
Boggs had given sufficient provocation to that people to make it prob- 
able that some fanatic of their number might undertake in misguided 
zeal, the act of revenge; and surely there would not be wanting those 
who would say that Joseph Smith in nis capacity as Prophet had pre- 
dicted the violent taking off of the ex-governor. Joseph Smith, how- 
ever, in his communication to the Quincy Whig, in which appeared the 
first account of the rumored assassination of Boggs, promptly denied 
making the alleged prediction, and also denied any complicity whatso- 
ever in the wretched business. It is only just to his memory to say that 
in all the investigation had upon the subject, historically, or judicially, 
his denial is not controverted. Even in the case of Orrin Porter Rock- 

* Bancroft's History of Utah, pp. 150, 151 note. 



XXII INTKODTJCTION. 

well who was charged directly with the attempted assassination and 
taken to Jackson county, Missouri, for trial, it had to be admitted that 
* 'there was not sufficient proof adduced against him to justify an in- 
dictment for shooting at ex-Governor Boggs, and the grand jury there- 
fore did not indict him for that offense.'' (Independent Expositor, Nile's 
Register, Sept. 30, 1843.) 

John C. Bennett labors hard to prove by statements alleged to have 
been made to him by the Prophet, and subsequently by Rockwell, that 
they were jointly guilty of this attempted assassination; but there is no 
weight of evidence iu his presentation of the case; nor is there any evi- 
dence that the Mormon people or the officials of the Mormon Church 
approved of revenge by acts of assassination. Bennett in his book "The 
History of the Saints," (p. 282) makes a quotation from the Nauvoo 
Wasp in which he charges editorial expressions of approval of the deed, 
as follows: 

The Nauvoo Wasp of May 28, A. D., 1842, a paper edited by William 
Smith, one of the Twelve Mormon Apostles, and brother of the Prophet, 
declared, ["Boggs is undoubtedly killed according to report, but]* Who 
did the Noble Deed remains to be found out." 

This, however, is not an editorial expression of the Wasp; but is 
found in a communication, on the editorial page, it is true, signed by a 
now unknown writer under the non cle plume, "Vortex," who is indig- 
nantly taking to task a correspodent in the Hawk Eye, a paper published 
in Keokuk, Iowa, for charging the supposed assassination of Boggs 
upon some Mormon. It is "Vortex" in the Wasp that refers to the then 
supposed assassination of Boggs as a "noble deed," not the editor. The 
editorial comment of the Wasp on this communication from "Vortex" 
is as follows: "We admit the foregoing communication to please our 
correspondent, not that we have any faith that any one has killed Gov- 
ernor Boggs. The last account we have received is that he is still liv- 
ing and likely to live." .On the same page of the Wasp is published 
Joseph Smith's denial of complicity in the then supposed assassination 
of Boggs and also the prediction of his violent death. 

The First Attempt of Missouri to Extradite the Prophet. 

That Joseph Smith should be accused of the crime of being accessory 
before the fact to the attempted assassination of ex-Governor 
Boggs, was perhaps to be expected as soon as a Mormon was 
charged with the assault. But that his extradition should be demanded 
by Missouri on the ground that he was "a fugitive from justice from 
that State" is something at which to be astonished, even when the 

* The words in brackets are in the Wasp communication, but not in Bennett's 
book. They are inserted here for clearness. 



INTRODUCTION . XXIII 

action is by the officials of Missouri of the period of which I am writ- 
ing. For surely it must be a true principle of law — since it is a plain 
deduction from common sense principles — that the alleged fugitive from 
justice must be such in connection with and in consequence of the 
crime with which he is charged. It was matter of common knowledge 
both in Missouri and in Illinois, that Joseph Smith had not been in 
Missouri for more than three years preceding the assault upon Boggs, 
nor since the time of the assault; and that on the day the assault was 
made he was in attendance upon an officer's drill. Finally, then, he 
was not a fugitive from the State of Missouri in respect of this particu- 
lar crime, therefore not extraditable under such charge. If, theu, 
Joseph Smith had committed the crime of being accessory before the 
fact, to the assault upon Boggs at all, it must have been a crime com- 
mitted in the state of Illinois and not in the state of Missouri. There- 
fore he was not extraditable for the offense at all, but he must be tried, 
if tried at all, in the state where the crime was committed, viz., in Illi- 
nois. But if astonishment is due that even Missouri should make such 
palpable blunders in legal procedure in moving for the extradition of 
the Prophet, astonishment changes to amazement when Governor Car- 
lin of Illinois becomes a party to the attempted illegal extradition. The 
whole procedure up to the close of Carlin's administration (which went 
out of existence on the 8th of December 1842), warrants the conclusion 
that a conspiracy existed between the high state officials of both Mis- 
souri and Illinois against Joseph Smith, and that it was the intent of 
that conspiracy to encompass his destruction. When the Prophet and 
Orrin Porter Rockwell were arrested (8th of August, 1842) by the 
deputy sheriff of Adams county, they made no attempt to evade the 
officer, but immediately applied to the municipal court of Nauvoo for 
a writ of habeas corpus, which was granted, but the deputy sheriff re- 
fused to recognize the authority of the municipal court in this case, and 
leaving his prisoner in the hands of the city marshal, withdrew from 
Nauvoo. He returned two days later, however, determined to take the 
Prophet from Nauvoo and deliver him to the agents of the state of 
Missouri. The Prophet, however, avoided arrest and went into retire- 
ment, where he remained — with now and then an occasional appear- 
ance among the people — throughout the summer of 1842. In the early 
days of December, Governor Carlin's administration came to an end 
and Ford's began, and the Prophet at once petitioned the new executive 
to rescind Carlin's order for his arrest. Ford referred the matter to the 
judges of the Supreme Court, who were unanimously of the opinion 
that the requisition from Missouri was illegal, but advised that the mat- 
ter be settled in the courts rather than by executive action. The Gov- 
ernor suggested that if the Prophet found it necessary to repair to 



XXIV INTRODUCTION . 

Springfield, the state capital, for a judicial investigation of his rights, 
he did not think there would be any disposition to use illegal violence 
against him; and the governor pledged himself to protect the Prophet if 
necessary with any amount of force from mob violence while assert- 
ing his rights before the courts, as well as when going to and return- 
ing from them. This advice was supplemented by the advice of his 
eminent counsel, Justin Bntterfield; also by his very dear and trusted 
friend, General James Adams. The Prophet accordingly submitted to 
arrest and immediately set out for Springfield with a company of his 
friends. 

The matter once before the Circuit Court of the United States for 
the district of Illinois, Judge Pope presiding, the matter was soon dis- 
posed of by declaring the procedure of Missouri and the executive of 
Illinois, (Carlin) illegal, and ordering that the Prophet be discharged 
from his arrest, as set forth in detail in the body of this volume. 

The Second Attempt of Missouri to Extradite the Prophet. 

A second attempt of Missouri to drag the Prophet from the state of 
Illinois by extradition procedure, was even more infamous than the 
first. No sooner was Joseph released from arrest and departed from 
Springfield than John C. Bennett arrived there and wrote some of his 
friends in Nauvoo his intention to leave immediately for Missouri and 
obtain a new indictment by a grand jury on the old charge of * 'murder, 
treason, burglary, theft," etc., brought against the Prophet, Hyrum 
Smith, Lyman Wight, Parley P. Pratt et al., in 1838, hoping that upon 
this charge he might succeed in getting out extradition papers on the 
ground that the Prophet was a fugitive from the justice of the state of 
Missouri. It will be remembered that a former attempt was made under 
this same charge, in June, 1841, when the Prophet was tried on writ 
of habeas corpus at Monmouth, Warren county, Illinois, before Judge 
Douglas and set at liberty. It was on this occasion that Esquire 0. 
H. Browning declared that to ask Joseph Smith "to go to Missouri for 
a trial was adding insult to injury" (Vol. IV, chapter XX). 

An indictment on these old charges was finally obtained, supposed- 
ly at the instance of Bennett and the Prophet's old Missouri enemies, 
at a special term of the Circuit Court of Daviess county, Missouri, on the 
5th of June, J 843. Governor Reynolds, of Missouri issued a requisi- 
sition on Governor Ford for Joseph Smith, and appointed J. H. Reyn- 
olds as agent of Missouri to receive the Prophet from the authorities 
of Illinois. The story of the arrest and the incidents thereto are given 
in great detail in the body of this volume, and need not be dwelt upon 
here. It will be sufficient to say that Joseph finally succeeded in bring- 



INTRODUCTION. XXV 

ing his captors to Nauvoo where he obtained a writ of habeas corpus 
from the municipal court of Nauvoo by which the validity of the pro- 
cedure of Missouri might be tested. When Joseph was on trial upon 
these same charges before Judge Douglas on a writ of habeas corpus in 
1841, the Monmouth court refused to enter into a consideration of the 
merits of the case, as the judge doubted whether on the writ of habeas 
corpus he had a right to go beyond the writ and inquire into the mer- 
its of the ease, but ordered the release of the prisoner on the ground of 
some defect in the writ under which he was held. The same point was 
avoided by Judge Pope in the hearing at Springfield on the charge 
against the Prophet for complicity in the assault upon ex-Governor 
Boggs. But the Nauvoo municipal court had no such scruples, and at 
once proceded to try the case exparte on its merits, and Hyrum Smith, 
P. P. Pratt, Brigham Young, Geo. W. Pitkin, Lyman Wight, and Sid- 
ney Rigdon were examined as witnesses. Their affidavits be- 
fore the court concerning events that happened to the Saints 
in Missouri, afford the most circumstantial, reliable and exhaustive data 
for the history of the Church while in that state. They will be found 
in the Appendix to Vol. Ill of this history. After hearing the testi- 
mony of these witnesses and the pleading of counsel the court ordered 
that Joseph Smith be released from the arrest and imprisonment of 
which he complained for want of substance in the warrant by which he 
was held, as well as upon the merits of the case. A copy of the proceed- 
ings before the municipal court at Nauvoo and all the papers connected 
with the case were immediately sent to Governor Ford, as also were 
affidavits from leading counsel and gentlemen from outside places. I 
may anticipate a little by saying that about a year later a jury in Lee 
county, Illinois, awarded $40.00 damages and costs against Wilson, a 
sheriff in the state of Illinois, and Reynolds, the Missouri agent, for 
false imprisonment and abuse of the Prophet, a verdict, which while it 
confirms the unlawful course of those officers, and the fact that their 
prisoner was abused, insults justice by awarding such an amount for 
damages. 

At the time of the action by the municipal court of Nauvoo, ordering 
the Prophet's release from arrest, it was a question in Illinois whether 
said court had the authority to hear and determine writs of habeas 
corpus arising from arrests made by virtue of warrants issued by the 
courts of the state or of the governor, as in the foregoing case; or 
whether the clause in the city charter granting the right of issuing writs 
of habeas corpus was not confined to cases arising strictly from arrests 
made on account of the violation of some city ordinance. The clause in 
the charter, giving to the municipal court the power to issue writs of 
habeas corpus was as follows: 



XXVI INTRODUCTION . 

The municipal court shall have power to grant writs of habeas corpus 
in all cases arising under the ordinances of the city council. 

And in addition there was the general welfare provision, which pro- 
vided that the 

City council shall have power and authority to make, ordain, establish 
and execute such ordinances not repugnant to the constitution of the 
United States or of this state, as they may deem necessary for the 
peace, benefit and safety of the inhabitants of said city. 

It was maintained on the part of those who believed that the municipal 
court had the right to issue writs of habeas corpus against process issued 
from the state courts that all the power there was in Illinois she gave to 
Nauvoo, and that the municipal court had all the power within the lim- 
its of the city that the state courts had, and that power was given by 
the same authority — the legislature. A number of lawyers of more or 
less prominence in the state professed to hold these views; but litrie 
reliance can be put in the support they bring to the case, since all of 
them were seeking political preferment, immediately or remotely, and 
would and did in their interpretation of the powers granted by the 
charter, favor that side of the controversy most likely to please the citi- 
zens of Nauvoo. Governor Ford, too, at the time, gave a tacit approval 
of the course taken by the municipal court in issuing the writ of habeas 
corpus j though he afterwards became very pronounced in his opposi- 
tion to the exercise of such powers. His acquiescence appears in this, 
that as soon as Joseph was liberated, sheriff Reynolds applied to Gov- 
ernor Ford foi sl posse to retake him, representing that the Prophet had 
been unlawfully taken out of his hands by the municipal court of Nauvoo: 
whereupon the governor refused to grant the petition. Subsequently the 
governor of Missouri asked Governor Ford to call out the militia to re- 
take Joseph, but this he also refused to do, and gave as a reason that "no 
process, officer, or authority of the state had been resisted or interfered 
with; " and recited how the prisoner had been released on habeas corpus 
by the municipal court of Nauvoo. The governor acted in this instance 
with perfect knowledge of what had taken place, for the petition and 
statement of Reynolds were in his possession, as were also complete 
copies of all the documents which contained the proceedings before the 
municipal court of Nauvoo; and in addition to these sources of informa- 
tion, the governor had dispatched a trusted secret agent, a Mr. Bray- 
man, to Nauvoo, who investigated the case and reported the result to 
him. It must be held, however, both as a matter of fact and of law, 
that the grant in the Nauvoo city charter was intended by the legisla- 
ture only to give power to the municipal court to issue writs of habeas 
corpus in cases of arrest for violation of city ordinances; and that giv- 



INTRODUCTION • XXVII 

ing power to the municipal court to test the warrants or processes issued 
from the state courts was never contemplated by the legislature, and 
that the passage of any ordinance by the city council that would bring 
about or authorize any such unusual proceeding was an unwarranted 
assumption of power, utterly wrong in principle and consequenly sub- 
versive of government. But whatever opinion may be entertained on 
the legal point under consideration, there can be no question but what 
upon the broad principles of justice the Prophet Joseph ought to have 
been set free. The state of Missouri had no just claims upon him. He 
had been arrested and several times examined on these old charges now 
revived by the personal malice of John C. Bennett, and after being 
held a prisoner awaiting indictment and trial for five months in Mis- 
souri in the winter of 1838-9, so conscious were the officers of the state 
that they had no case against him, that they themselves connived at his 
escape. After such proceedings to demand that he be dragged again 
into Missouri, among his old enemies for a trial on these old and time- 
worn charges, was an outrage against every principle of justice, and 
was a course prompted solely by malice. 

Prospecting the West tvith a View to Removal of the 

Saints. 

It may be that what is here set down with reference to prospecting 
the west with a view to the ultimate removal of the Saints, can reach 
no higher from the data supplied by this volume than conjecture; but 
taken in connection with the well-known projects of the last year of the 
Prophet's life — upon which now our history, even in this volume, has 
entered — and the facts to which attention is called appear quite signifi- 
cant. These facts are: The Prophet's remarkable and well attested 
prediction of 6th of August, 1843, that the Saints would yet be driven 
to the Rocky mountains where they would become a great people (p. 
85 and note; ) the several visits of delegations of Pottawattamie Indian 
chiefs to the Prophet, the body of their people being then settled on the 
Missouri river nearly due west some three hundred miles from Nauvoo; 
the appointment of Elder Jonathan Dunham, a man of character and 
judgment, to visit this tribe of Indians, under the Pottawattamie guide 
Neotanah; and the incorporation of the journal of Elder Dunham with- 
in the narrative of the Prophet's autobiographical journal. The con- 
cluding paragraph of Dunham's journal expresses disappointment with 
his explorations,* the object of which since his journey covered some- 
thing like six hundred miles, and was attended by Indian guides both.: 

*"I have seen much delightful country, but the prospect for bee hunting is no 
as good as I could wish." 



XXVIII INTRODUCTION 

coming and returning, was not "bee nunting;" but most probably 
prospecting a possible trail and locating resting places for the Saints 
when engaged in a great westward movement. 

Development of the Prophet's Character. 

During the trying events of the fifteen months of which this volume is a 
history, the nature of the Prophet underwent a remarkable development. 
There never was, of course, any doubt as to the physical courage of the 
Prophet. From boyhood he had been noted for his fearlessness under 
trying circumstances, but during the period here considered he was the 
constant object of assault, both by legal processes, under the leadership 
of cunning, malicious men, and the physical brutality of officials 
charged with the execution of the law; and both when facing the malic- 
iously skillful in their proceedings under the color of law, and the threats 
of physical force from brutal captors, the conduct of the Prophet was 
most admirable. Also in seclusion, when others were easily excited 
and manifested symptoms of panic under the ciruumstances of conflict- 
ing rumors of impending dangers, it is refreshing to see how calmly the 
Prophet keeps his balance and rightly judges the true status of many 
trying situations. But what is most pleasing to record of this period of 
enforced seclusion while avoiding his enemies, is the development of 
that tenderness of soul manifested in his reflections upon the friends 
who had stood by him from the commencement of his public career: for 
his father and mother, for his brother Alvin, for Emma, his wife, for his 
brother Hyrum, the Knights, who were his friends even before the Book 
of Mormon was translated, and especially for the friends who received 
him and ministered unto him during his retirement from public minis- 
try. No act of kindness seems to go unmentioned. No risk run for 
him that is not appreciated. Indeed he gathers much benefit from those 
trials, since their effect upon his nature seems to be a softening rather 
than a hardening influence; and the trials of life are always beneficial 
where they do not harden and brutalize men's souls; and every day 
under his trials the Prophet seems to have grown more tender-hearted, 
more universal in his sympathies; his moments of spiritual exaltation 
are superb. No one can read them and doubt that the inspiration of 
God was giving this man's spirit understanding. 

Doctrinal Development. 

The doctrinal development of the Church for the period covered by 
this volume covers a wide range of subjects; the Prophet's definition of 
the "Kingdom of God," meaning in its narrowest as in its broadest 
sense, the * 'government of God, whether represented by a single indi- 



INTRODUCTION . XXIX 

vidual, an institution or a great and complex organization (p. 256); the 
keys by which angelic administrations may be known (p. 267); the vir- 
tue of Blood Atonement (p. 296); the physical nature of God, the Father, 
the Son, and the Holy Spirit (p. 323, 325, 426); the earth becoming aUrim 
and Thummim to those who shall inherit it in its glorified and perfected 
state; tne coming of the Son of Man; the persistence of acquired knowl- 
edge; the impossibility of being saved in ignorance (pp. 323-5). But 
the climax in doctrine as in moral daring is reached in this volume 
by the Prophet committing to writing the revelation on the eternity of 
the marriage covenant, and, under special circumstances and divine 
sanction the rightfulness, of a plurality of wives. As the time at which 
this revelation was given has been questioned, and also the author- 
ship of it, extended consideration is given to both these matters in the 
following treatise: 

The Time When the Revelation on the Eternity of the Mar- 
riage Covenant, Including a Plurality of Wives, 
Was Given, and its Authorship. 

I. 

Ihe Date of the Revelation. 

The date in the heading of the Revelation on the Eternity of the 
Marriage Covenant, Including: the Plurality of Wives, notes the time at 
which the revelation was committed to writing, not the time at which 
the principles set forth in the revelation were first made known to the 
Prophet. This is evident from the written revelation itself which dis- 
closes the fact that Joseph Smith was already in the relationship 
of plural marriage, as the following passage witnesses: 

"And let mine handmaid, Emma Smith, receive all those that 
have been given unto my servant Joseph, and who are virtuous and 
pure before me." 

There is indisputable evidence that the revelation making known this 
marriage law was given to the Prophet as early as 1831. In that year, 
and thence intermittently up to 1833, the Prophet was engaged in a re- 
vision of the English Bible text under the inspiration of God, Sidney 
Rigdon in the main acting as his scribe. As he began his revision with 
the Old Testament, he would be dealing with the age of the Patriarchs 
in 1831. He was doubtless struck with the favor in which the Lord held 
the several Bible Patriarchs of that period, notwithstanding they had a 
plurality of wives. What more natural than that he should inquire of the 
Lord at that time, when his mind must have been impressed with the 
fact _ Why , o Lord, didst Thou justify Thy servants, Abraham, Isaac 



XXX INTRODUCTION. 

and Jacob; as also Moses, David, and Solomon, in the matter of their 
having many wives and concubines (see opening paragraph of the 
Revelation)? In answer to that inquiry came the revelation, though 
not then committed to writing. 

Corroborative evidences of the fact of the revelation having been 
given thus early in the Prophet's career are to be found in the early 
charges against the Church about its belief in "polygamy.'' For 
example: When the Book of Doctrine and Covenants was presented to 
the several quorums of the priesthood of the Church for acceptance in 
the general assembly of that body, the 17th of August, 1835, an article 
on "Marriage" was presented by W. W. Phelps, which for many years 
was published in the Doctrine and Covenants. It was not a revelation, 
nor was it presented as such to the general assembly of the priesthood. 
It was an article, however, that represented the views of the assembly 
on the subject of marriage at that time, unenlightened as they were by 
the revelation already given to the Prophet on the subject. What the 
Prophet Joseph's connection was with this article cannot be learned. 
Whether he approved it or not is uncertain, since he was absent from 
Kirtland at the time of the general assembly of the priesthood which 
accepted it, on a visit to the Saints in Michigan (see History of the 
Church, Vol. I, pp. 243-53). 

In this article on marriage the following sentence occurs: 

"Inasmuch as this Church of Christ has been reproached with the 
crime of fornication and polygamy, we declare that we believe that one 
man should have one wife, and one woman but one husband, except in 
case of death, when either is at liberty to marry again.'* 

From this it is evident that as early at least as 1835 a charge of poly- 
gamy was made against the Church. Why was that the case unless the 
subject of "polygamy" had been mooted within the Church? Is it not 
evident that some one to whom the Prophet had confided the knowl- 
edge of the revelation he had received concerning the rightfulness of 
plural marriage — under certain circumstances — had unwisely made 
some statement concerning the matter? 

Again, in May, 1836, in Missouri, in a series of questions asked and 
answered through the Elders Journal, the following occurs: 

"Do the Mormons believe in having more wives than one?" 

To which the answer is given; 

"No, not at the same time." 

This again represents the belief of the Saints at that time, unen- 
lightened as they then were by the revelation received by their Prophet. 
But again, why this question unless there had been some agitation of the 
subject? Had some one before the time had come for making known 
this doctrine to the Church, again unwisely referred to the knowledge 



INTRODUCTION. XXXI 

which had been revealed to the Prophet some seven years earlier? 

All these incidents blend together and make it clearly evident that 
the revelation on marriage was given long before the 12th of July, 1843. 
Doubtless as early as 1831. 

In addition to these indirect evidences is the direct testimony of the 
late Elder Orson Pratt, of the council of the Twelve Apostles. In 1878, 
in company with President Joseph F. Smith, Elder Pratt visited several 
states east of the Mississippi in the capacity of a missionary; and at 
Piano, Illinois, at a meeting of the so-called Reorganized Church of the 
Latter-day Saints, he was invited by the presiding officer, a Mr. Dille, 
and the meeting, to occupy the time, which he did. In his remarks, 
according to his own and his companion's report of the meeting— 

"Elder Pratt gave a plain, simple narration of his early experience in 
the Church, relating many interesting incidents connected with its rise; 
explained the circumstances under which several revelations were re- 
ceived by Joseph, the Prophet, and the manner in which he received 
them, he being present on several occasions of the kind. Declared [that] 
at such times Joseph used the Seerstone when inquiring of the Lord, and 
receiving revelation, but that he was so thoroughly endowed with the 
inspiration of the Almighty and the spirit of revelation that he often 
received them without any instrument, or other means than the oper-^ 
ation of the spirit upon his mind. Referred to the testimony which he 
received of the truth of the great latter-day work while yet a boy,. 
Testified that these things were not matiers of belief only with him,, 
bat of actual knowledge. He explained the circumstances connected 
with the coming forth of the revelation on plural marriage. Refuted 
the statement and belief of those present that Brigham Young was the 
author of that revelation; showed that Joseph Smith the Prophet had 
not only commenced the practice himself , and taught it to others, before 
President Young and the Twelve had returned from their mission in 
Europe, in 184L, but that Joseph actually received revelations upon 
that principle as early as 1831. Said: 'Lyman Johnson, who was very 
familiar with Joseph at this early date, Joseph living at his father's 
house, and who was also very intimate with me, we having traveled on 
several missions together, told me himself that Joseph had made known 
to him as early as 1831, that plural marriage was a correct principle. 
Joseph declared to Lyman that God had revealed it to him, but that 
the time had not come to teach or practice it in the Church, but that 
the time would come.' To this statement Elder Pratt bore his 
testimony. He cited several instances of Joseph haying had wives 
sealed to him, one at least as early as April 5th, 1841, which was some 
time prior to the return of the Twelve from England, Referred to his 
own trial in regard to this matter in Nauvoo, and said it was because he 



XXXII INTRODUCTION . 

got his information from a wicked source, from those disaffected, but 

as soon as he learned the truth, he was satisfied. 

(Signed) " Orson Pratt, 
(Signed) "Joseph F. Smith." 

(The above is taken from a signed report of Elders Orson 
Pratt and Joseph F. Smith of the Council of the Twelve on the occasion 
of their visit to the East in 1878, and is to be found in the Millennial 
Star, Vol. 40, Nos. 49 and 50.) 

Relative to committing the revelation to writing on the 12th of July, 
1843, that can best be told by the man who wrote the revelation as the 
Prophet Joseph dictated it to him, William Ulayton; and the man who 
copied it the day following, Joseph Kingsbury; and from which copy 
the revelation was afterwards printed as it now stands in the current 
edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. In a sworn statement before 
John T. Caine, a notary public in Salt Lake City, on Fehurary 16th, 
1874, William Clayton said: 

"On the 7th of October, 1842, in the presence of Bishop Newel K. 
Whitney and his wife, Elizabeth Ann, President Joseph Smith ap- 
pointed me Temple Recorder, and also his private clerk, placing all 
records, books papers, etc., in my care, and requiring me to take 
charge of and preserve them, his closing words being, 'when I have 
any revelations to write, you are the one to write them.' * 
On the morning of the 12th of July, 1843; Joseph and Hyrum Smith 
came into the office in the upper story of the brick store, on the bank 
of the Mississippi river. They were talking on the subject of plural 
marriage. Hyrum said to Joseph, k If you will write the revelation on 
celestial marriaere, I will take it and read it to Emma, and I believe I 
can convince her of its truth, and you will hereafter have peace.' 
Joseph smiled and remarked, 'You do not know Emma as well as I do.' 
Hyrum repeated his opinion, and further remarked, 'The doctrine is so 
plain, I can convince any reasonable man or woman of its truth, purity 
and heavenly origin,' or words to that effect. Joseph then said, 'Well, 
I will write the revelation and we will see.' He then requested me to 
get paper and prepare to write. Hyrum very urgently requested 
Joseph to write the revelation by means of the Urim and Thummim, 
but Joseph in reply, said he did not need to, for he knew the revelation 
perfectly from beginning to end. 

"Joseph and Hyrum then sat down and Joseph commenced to dictate 
the revelation on celestial marriage, and I wrote it, sentence by sen- 
tence, as he dictated. After the whole was written, Joseph asked me 
to read it through, slowly and carefully, which I did, and he pronounced 
it correct. He then remarked that there was much more that he could 



INTRODUCTION . XXXIII 

write on the same subject, but what was written was sufficient for the 
present. 

"Hyrum then took the revelation to read to Emma. Joseph remained 
with me in the office until Hyrum returned. When he came back, Jos- 
eph asked him how he had succeeded. Hyrum replied thai he had never 
received a more severe talking to in his life, that Emma was very bitter 
and full of resentment and anger. 

"Joseph quietly remarked, *I told you you did not know Emma as 
well as I did.' Joseph then put the revelation in his pocket, and they 
both left the office. 

"The revelation was read to several of the authorities during the day. 
Towards evening Bishop Newel K. Whitney asked Joseph if he had any 
objections to his taking a cnpy of the revelation; Joseph replied that 
he had not, and handed it to him. It was carefully copied the following 
day by Joseph C. Kingsbury. Two or three days after the revelation 
was written Joseph related to me and several others that Emma had so /?£' 
teased, and urgently entreated him for the privilege of destroying it, 
that he became so wear3 T of her teasing, and to get rid of her annoyance, 
he told her she might destroy it and she had done so, hut he had con- 
sented to her wish in this matter to pacify her, realizing that he knew 
the revelation perfectly, and could rewrite it at any time if necessary. 

"The copy made by Joseph C. Kingsbury is a true and correct copy 
of the original in every respect. The copy was carefully preserved by 
Bishop Whitney, and but few knew of its existence until the temporary 
location of the Camps of Israel at Winter Quarters, on the Missouri 
River, in 1846. 

aecfl "Wm. Clayton. 

'Salt Lake City, Feb. 16th, 1874." 

On May 22, 1886, Joseph C. Kingsbury made the following statement 
before Charles W. Stayner, a notary public, in Salt Lake City: 

"In reference to the affidavit of Elder William Clayton, on the sub- 
ject of the celestial order of patriarchal marriage, published in the 
Deseret Evening Neivs of May 20th, 1886, and particularly as to the state- 
ment made therein concerning myself, as having copied the original rev- 
elation written by Brother Clayton at the dictation of the Prophet Jos- 
eph, I will say that Bishop Newel K. Whitney, handed me the revela- 
tion above referred to either on the day it was written or the day fol- 
lowing, and stating what it was, asked me to take a copy of it. I did 
so, and then read my copy of it to Bishop Whitney, we compared it 
with the original which he held in his hand while I read to him. When 

had finished reading, Bishop Whitney pronunced the copy correct, 
and Hyrum Smith coming into the room at the time to fetch the original, 
Bishop Whitney handed it to him. I will also state that this copy, as 




XXXIV INTRODUCTION . 

also the original are identically the same as that published in the present 
edition [1886] of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. 

"I will add that I also knew that the Prophet Joseph Smith had mar- 
ried other women besides his first wife, Emma; I was well aware of the 
fact of nis having married Sarah Ann Whitney, the eldest daughter of 
Bishop Newel K. Whitney and Elizabeth Ann Whitney, his wife. 
And the Prophet Joseph told me personally that he had married other 
women, in accordance with the revealed will of God, and spoke con- 
cerning the principle as being a command of God for holy purposes. 
(Signed) "Joseph C. Kingsbury." 

II. 
Authorship oj the Revelation. 

In addition to the testimony of these affidavits as to the authorship 
of the revelation, and many more on file in the Church Historian's of- 
fice, equally positive and unimpeachable, which might be quoted, there 
is another sort of evidence as to the authorship, not before used, so far 
as I know, to which I desire to appeal, and which if* even more certain 
and convincing on this subject than the testimony of any affidavit by 
whomsoever given. I refer to the internal evidence that Joseph Smith, 
under the inspiration of God, of course, is the author of it. The reve- 
lation carries with it so many characteristics of his style found in other 
revelations given through him, that to doubt his authorship of it is im- 
possible. Let us consider these characteristics. 

1. Ihe Bevelation Was Given in Answer to the Prophet 1 s Inquiry — 
A Characteristic of Nearly All His Bevelations. 

The revelation was given in answer to the Prophet's inquiries upon 
one branch of the subject of which it treats, viz., the justification of 
some of the Bible Patriarchs and Prophets in having a plurality of 
wives. It is so generally the case that the revelations the Prophet re- 
ceived came in response to inquiries either by himself or by those who 
sought to learn their duty or to know some truth, that such inquiries 
may be considered as a condition precedent to his receiving revelations; 
at any rate it is plainly a characteristic of the whole volume of revela- 
tions which Joseph Smith gave to the world. 

The Prophet's first revelation, the one respecting the errancy of 
the religious world, accompanied as it was by a full view of God the 
Father, and God the Son, was received in answer to a most earnest in- 
quiry to know what course he should pursue in the midst of the religious 
confusion then existing — which church should he join. (History of the 
Church, Vol. I, chapt. 1,) 

The first of that series of meetings with the angel Moroni, which 



INTRODUCTION . XXXT 

finally resulted in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, was brought 
about through the Prophet asking for a spiritual manifestation from the 
Lord, that he might know of his "state and standing before Him." 
(History of the Church, Vol. I, chapt. 2). 

The series of revelations given during the time the Book of Mormon 
was in course of translation were chiefly given in response to inquiries 
on the part of the persons who came to the Prophet seeking to know 
the will of the Lord with reference to the relationship they should as- 
sume towards the work then coming forth. See Doc. and Cov., Sec. 10; 
History of the Church, Vol. I, p. 23, also pp. 28-33, 36, 45, 48, 49, 51, 
53. These revelations are found in the Doc. and Cov., Sec. 3, 4, 5, G, 
7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 1G, 17.) 

The revelation authorizing the organization of the Church and out- 
lining that organization and some of the fundamental doctrines of the 
Church (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 20), was given in answer to most earnest 
inquiry as to how the Prophet and his associates should proceed with 
the work of organization. "We had for some time made this matter a 
subject of humble prayer," writes the Prophet, "and at length we got 
together in the chamber of Mr. Whitmer's house, in order more par- 
ticularly to seek of the Lord what we now so earnestly desired; and 
here to our unspeakable satisfaction, did we realize the truth of the 
Savior's promise, 'ask, and it shall be given you; seek, anr 1 ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you 1 — for we had not long been 
engaged in solemn and fervent prayer, when the word of the Lord came 
to us in the chamber." (History of the Church, chapt. 7.) Then fol- 
lows the revelation on Church organization and doctrine. 

I may say that all the great revelations of the Church, as well as those 
which might be regarded as merely personal, were received in response 
to earnest inquiries of the Lord. Thus the revelation which in 1831 
was regarded as making known the moral law of the Gospel was re- 
ceived after earnest inquiry. (History of the Church, Vol. I, p. 148; 
Doc. and Cov., Sec. 42, par. 3.) So also the great revelation on priest- 
hood. (History of the Church, Vol. I, p. 287; Doc. and Cov., Sec. 84.) 
The great revelation on the order of the priesthood and the relations of 
the quorums to each other was given in response to a formal and very 
earnest petitition on the part of the quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 
(History of the Church, Vol.11, pp. 219, 220; Doc. and Cov., Sec. 107.) 
So also as to the revelation on tithing and the disposition of it. (Doc. 
and Cov., Sec. 119, 120; History of the Church, Vol. Ill, p. 44.) So the 
great revelation setting in order the affairs of the Church at Nauvoo, 
given January 19, 1841. " Your prayers are acceptable before me," 
said the Lord to the Prophet, "and in answer to them I say unto you," 
then continues that great revelation. (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 124: 2.) In 



XXXVI INTRODUCTION . 

fact, to particularize no further, it may be said that by far the greater 
number of the revelations received by the Prophet were in response to 
his petitions and inquiries of the Lord; and therefore the fact that this 
revelation on marriage was given in response to inquiries by the 
Prophet, to know why the Lord justified the worthy patriarchs named, 
and some of the prophets, in their plural marriage relations, is char- 
acteristic of practically all the revelations received by him. 

^. It Possesses the Characteristic of Frankness in Beproving the Prophet. 

Another characteristic of the Prophet Joseph's revelations is the 
frankness with which the Prophet himself is reproved for his follies and 
transgressions of the counsels of the Lord. He is never shielded; never 
justified when he steps aside from the path direct; reproof, chastise- 
ment and warnings are administered to him. *God in these revelations 
deah with him indeed as with a son whom he loves, if it be true— and 
we have warrant of holy writ that it is — that God chasteneth whom he 
loveth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (Heb. 12: 6-8.) 
The following quotations from the revelations will illustrate what I 
mean. The Lord thus reproved the Prophet in 1829: "And behold^ 
how oft you have transgressed the commandments and the laws of God, 
and have gone on in the persuasions of men. * * * * Yoi. should 
not have feared man more than God. * * * * Thou wast chosen 
to do the work of the Lord, but because of transgression, if thou art 
not aware, thou wilt fall. * * * Repent. * * * Except thou 
do this, thou shalt be delivered up and become as other men, and haye 
no more gift. * * * Thou hast suffered the counsel of thy director 
to be trampled upon from the beginning. (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 3.) 

Again in 1829 this: "I command you my servant Joseph to repent 
and walk more uprightly before me, and yield to the persuasions of men 
no more. (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 5.) 

This was said of the Prophet in a revelation given in 1830: "After 
it was truly manifested unto this first elder (Joseph Smith) that he had 
received a remission of his sins, he was entangled again in the vanities 
of the world. But after repenting and huoibling himself sincerely, 
through faith, God ministered unto him by an holy angel," etc. that is, 
took him again into divine favor. (See Doc. and Cov., Sec. 20.) 

Again in 1830: "Thou art not excusable in thy transgressions; 
nevertheless, go thy way and sin no more." (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 24.) 

In 1831 this was said of the Prophet: "There are those who have 
sought occasion against him without cause; nevertheless he has sinned, 
but verily I say unto you, I the Lord, forgive sins unto those who con- 
fess their sins before me and ask forgiveness, who have not sinned unto 
death." (Doc. and Coy., Sec. 64.) 



INTRODUCTION . XXXVII 

In 1833, this: " Verily, I say unto you, my son, thy sins are forgiven 
thee t according to thy petition, for thy prayers, and the prayers of thy 
brethren, have come up into my ears." (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 90.) 

In the same year this: " Verily, I say unto Joseph Smith, Jr., you 
have not kept the commandments, and must needs stand rebuked be- 
fore the Lord." (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 93.) 

In 1841 this was said to the Prophet: "Verily thus saith the Lord 
unto you my servant Joseph Smith, I am well pleased with your offer- 
ing and acknowledgments, which you have made, for unto this end 
have I raised you up, that I might show forth my wisdom through the 
weak things of the earth.' 1 (Doc. and Cov., Sec. 124.) 

It is but iu harmony then with the whole course of God with this man 
that in this revelation on marriage his sins should be referred too. It 
is particularly Joseph Smith-like that it should be done, and it is done: 
"Let my handmaid forgive my servant Joseph his trespasses; and then 
shall she be forgiven her trespasses wherein she has trespassed against 
me> ***** -x- k et no Qne ^ therefore, set on my servant Jos- 
eph; for I will justify him; for he shall do the sacrifice which I require 
at his hands, for his transgressions, saith the Lord your God.'' (Doc. 
and Cov., Sec. 132: 56-60). 

Thus it will appear that all the frankness with which the Prophet 
was reproved in other revelations is manifested in this revelation on 
marriage; and hence, to the extent of that characteristic, identifies this 
revelation on the marriage covenant with the other revelations received 
by the Prophet. 

3. The Evidence of the Largeness of Mange in the Eevelation on Marriage. 

The next characteristic to be noted is the largeness of range in 
this revelation so characteristic of(all, the Prophet's revelations. His 
main inquiry was why God justified the ancient patriarchs in having 
many wives. The answer went far beyond the inquiry, and there was 
given to the Prophet a new marriage law, so far transcending the con- 
ceptions of men coucerning marriage, as the thoughts of God transcend 
the thoughts of men on all subjects. The marriage covenant must be 
an eternal one, not marriage "until death does you part.'' The mar- 
riage relation will exist in heaven. Pro-creation within the marriage 
covenant of man is to be an eternal, creative power. It shall people 
the increasing heavens as it has the multiplying worlds with offspring 
of the Sons of God. It is to be of the things that shall not pass away, 
but a means of perpetuating the lives and all their purifying, and up- 
lifting relationships. And the power to establish these relationships is 
in the Priesthood of God, the keys of which were restored through Jos- 
eph Smith. 



XXXVIII INTRODUCTION . 

4. The Evidence of Identical Phraseology in This and Other Revelations. 

The recurrence and peculiar use of certain phrases to be found in 
both this revelation on Marriage and the other revelations given out by 
Joseph Smith, establish clearly the authorship to be the same. Such, 
for example, as the peculiar use of "mine" instead of ''my.'' In the 
revelation on marriage we have this: ' 'Behold! mine house is a house 
of order" (v. 8) ; "If a man be called of my Father, * * * by mine 
own voice," etc., (v. 59). "Through the medium of mine anointed, 
whom I have appointed," etc., (v. 7); and are sealed * * * ac- 
cording to mine appointment (v. 26); and let mine handmaid Emma 
Smith, (v. 54); "verily I say, let mine handmaid forgive my servant 
Joseph," etc., (v. 56). 

Let these expressions be compared with the following phrases from 
various revelations: "Behold this is mine authority and the authority of 
my servants'' (Doc. and Cov. sec. 1: 6); "They have strayed from mine 
ordinances (v. 15); "that mine everlasting covenant be established," 
etc., (v. 22); "shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or the 
voice of my servants" (v. 38); "it is meet unto you to know even as 
mine apostles" (sec. 19:8); "ye are called to bring to pass the gather- 
ing of mine elect for mine elect hear my voice" (sec. 29: 7); "it hath 
gone forth * * * that mine apostles, the Twelve," etc. ( /. 12); 
"it is the workmanship of mine hand" (v. 25); "Michael, mine arch- 
angel, shall sound his trump" (v. 26); "through faith on the name of 
mine Only Begotten Son" (v. 42); "from the foundation of the world 
through mine Only Begotten'' (v. 46) ; "according to mine own plea- 
sure" (v. 4S). And so on throughout the revelations this phrase oc- 
curs. It is used eight times in the revelation on marriage and runs 
through nearly all the revelations sometimes fewer, sometimes more 
than this. In section 101 it occurs eleven times, in section 103 six 
times. But it is always used sufficiently to make it a characteristic of 
the revelations received by Joseph Smith. 

(2) The phrase "as touching," is used several times in this revela- 
tion on marriage; "a* touching the principle and doctrine, "etc., (v. 1); 
"will answer thee as touching this matter" (v. 2); "and as touching 
Abraham and his seed" (v. 30) ; "as touching the law of the priesthood,'' 
etc., (v. 5). The same expression is found in Sec. 42 — "As ye * * * 
are agreed as touching this one thing" (v. 3). Also in the Book of 
Mormon: "He spake as touching all things concerning my people." 

(3) Such phrases as "I am the Lord thy God, and will answer thee," 
etc., are frequent in this revelation. The above is in verse 2; then 
again, "I am the Lord thy God, and will give unto thee the law,'' etc., 
(v. 28); "I am the Lord thy God, and I gave unto thee an appoint- 
ment (v. 40); the same in verse 57; indeed it comes in almost as a re- 



INTRODUCTION. XXXIX 

train of poetic emphasis at about equal distances throughout the revela- 
tion, giving them in places almost rhythmic effect. This will be found 
characteristic of several other revelations, notably section 1: The Lord 
speaking of His servants says: ''I, the Lord, have commanded them" 
(v. 5); "Wherefore I, the Lord, knowing the calamity which should 
comfi," etc., (v. 17); "for, I, the Lord, cannot look upon sin," etc., 
(v. 31.) 

So also in slightly different form the peculiarity will be found in sec- 
tion 1*2: "Behold, I am God and give heed, etc, (v. 2); "behold, I 
speak unto you," etc., (v. 7); "behold, I am the light and life of the 
world," etc., (v. 9), Also in section 29: "Thus did I the Lord God 
appoint unto man" (v. 43); "wherefore I, the Lord God, will send 
forth flies" (v. 18); "wherefore I, the Lord God, caused that he 
should be cast out,"' (v. 41); "and thus did I, the Lord God, appoint 
unto man the days," etc., (v. 43). Again in section 50: "Behold, I, 
the Lord, have looked upon you" (v. 4); wherefore I, the Lord, ask you 
this question" (v. 13). Also section 52; "Behold, thus saith the Lord 
unto tne Elders," etc., (v. 1); "I, the Lord, will make known unto 
you" (v. 2); "behold I, the Lord, will hasten the city," etc., (v. 43.) 

The peculiar use of "none other," in place of "no other," and of 
"none" instead of "no one," is an expression both in the revelation on 
marriage and a number of other revelations about which there is no 
question of the authorship being Joseph Smith's. In the revelation on 
marriage we have this: "Abraham * * * abode in my law, as 
Isaac also, and Jacob did none other things than that which they were 
commanded; and because they did none other things than that which 
they were commanded, they have entered into their exaltation (v. 37). 
In section 43 we have the same phrase: "There is none other appointed 
unto you,'' etc., (v.3); "I say unto you that none else shall be appointed 
unto this gift" (v. 4); also in Section GI, the following: "It shall be 
said in days to come that none is able to go up to the land" (v. 16); 
also Section 82, "and none doeth good, for all have gone out of the way 
(v. 6); and they * * * shall find none inheritance in that day," 
etc., (Sec. 85:9). 

The use of the plural "Gods 7 ' in the revelation on marriage and 
in other revelations, tends to prove common authorship. In the revela- 
tion on marriage we have the following: "And henceforth are not Gods, 
but are angels of God forever and ever" (v. 17) ; "it cannot be received 
there because the angels and the Gods are appointed there, by whom 
they cannot pass" etc. (v. 18); "then shall they be Gods because they 
have no end; then shall they be Gods because they have all power 
(v. 20) ; and sit upon thrones, and are not angels, but are Gods 
(v. 36); in the revelation called the Vision, Doc. and Cov. Sec. 76, 
which revelation was given in February, 1832, and first published in 



XL INTRODUCTION. 

the Eveneng and Morning Star of July, 1833, (vol. 1, number 2, p. 28) 
occurs the following: "And are priests of the most high, * * * 
wherefore, as it is written, they are Gods even the Sons of God (v. 58) 
also in Sec. 121; "Nothing shall be witbhheld, whether there be one 
God or many Gods, they shall be manifest (v. 28); according to that 
which was ordained in the midst of the Council of the Eternal God of 
all other Gods, before this world was" (v. 32). 

The phrase, "My house is a house of order," is used in the revelation 
on marriage (v. 18), also in Doc. and Cov., section 88, the phrase 
occurs, "a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God' 7 (v. 119) ; 
"this shall be the order of the house of the presidency" (v. 128). 

In closing the revelation on marriage the paragraph reads as fol- 
lows: "And now, as pertaining to this law, verily, verily I say unto 
you, I will reveal more unto you hereafter; therefore let this suffice for 
the present Behold, I am Alpha and Omega. Amen." This is some- 
what characteristic of the closing of a number of revelations in the 
Doctrine and Covenants. The revelation in section 60 closes with — 
'Behold, this is sufficient for you * * * the residue hereafter. 
Even so. Amen." Section 84 closes, "I am Alpha and Omega, the be- 
ginning and the end. Amen" (v. 120). Section 94 closes: 
"And now I give you no more at this time (v. 17). Section 95 closes "Let 
the higher part of the inner court be dedicated unto me for the school of 
mine apostles, saith Son Ahman; or in other words, Alphus, or in 
other words, Omegus, even Jesus Christ your Lord.- Amen" (v. 17). 

In other revelations the expression Alpha and Omega comes in the 
body of the revelation as for instance in section 45, "Verily I say unto 
you that I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the lisrht 
aud life of the world" (v. 7). The same phraseology is used in the 
body of section 63, v. GO. 

In section 19 it opens the revelation, "I am Alpha and Omega, 
Christ the Lord, yea even I am He, the beginning and the end, the Ke- 
deemer of the world" (v. 1). "Behold, and hearken unto the voice of 
Him who has all power, who is from everlasting to everlasting, even 
Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end" (section 61, v. 1). 

Other revelations close in the same impressive manner and with,the 
somewhat equivalent expressions in English, instead of the use of the 
Greek terms, Alpha and Omega. Thus section 18 closes: "Behold, L 
Jesus Christ, your Lord and your God and your Redeemer by the power 
of my spirit have spoken it" (v. 47). Section 1 ends, "For behold and 
lo, the Lord is God and the Spirit beareth record, and the record is true, 
and the truth abideth forever and ever. Amen" (v. 39). 

The same occurs in section 75 and 14; but whether the phrase occurs 
in the opening of the revelation or the middle of it, or in the closing 
paragraph, it occurs with sufficient frequency to be noted as a peculiar- 



INTRODUCTION. XLI 

ity of the Prophet's phraseology, and aids in the identification of his 
inspired style. 

The term "forgiveness of sin" occurs in the revelation on mar- 
riage as follows: "Behold, I have seen your sacrifices [Joseph's], and 
will forgive all your sins." This is both a principle and phraseology 
frequent in the revelations, as an example, section 64: "There are 
those who have sought occasion against him (Joseph) without cause; 
nevertheless he has sinned, but verily I say unto you, I, the Lord, for- 
give sins unto those who confess their sins before me" (v. 7). Let the 
spirit of this be compared with the following from the revelation on 
marriage: "Let no one, therefore, set on my servant Joseph, for I will 
justify him, for he shall do the sacrifices which I require at his hands 
for his transgressions, saith the Lord your God'' (v. GO). "Again, verily 
I say, let mine handmaid forgive my servant Joseph his trespasses, and 
then shall she be forgiven her trespasses wherein she has trespassed 
against me" (v. 56). 

In the revelation on marriage occurs the following phraseology: 
"Verily, verily, I sav unto you, that whatsoever you seal on earth, 
shall be sealed in heaven; and whatsoever you bind on earth, in my 
name, and by my word, saith the Lord, it shall be eternally bound in 
the heavens'' (v. 46). The same phraseology is used in section 124 in 
speaking of Hyrum Smith, who was appointed to hold the keys of the 
patriarchal blessings upon the heads of God's people; namely, "Whoso- 
ever he blesses shall be blessed, and whosoever he curses shall be 
cursed; and whatsoever he shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; 
and whatsoever he shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven" 
(v. 93). In section 128 the same phraseology is used in describing the 
power of the priesthood (v, 8). And again in v. 10, quoting it from the 
New Testament. (Matt. 16: 18, 19). 

lu verse 26 on the revelation on marriage, this phraseology is found: 
"They shall be destroyed in the flesh and shall be delivered unto the 
bufferings of Satan, unto the day of redemption, saith the Lord God." 
The same phraseology occurs in section 82. "The soul that sins * * * 
shall be delivered over to the buffeting of Satan until the day of re- 
demption" (v. 21). The same phraseology occurs in section 78, v. 12; 
section 104, v. 9, 10. In the revelation on marriage this passage 
occurs: "I give unto my servant Joseph, that he shall be made ruler 
over many things, for he hath been faithful over a few things.'' Section 
117 practically the some phraseology occurs with reference to William 
Marks, "Let my servant, William Marks, be faithful over a few things, 
and he shall be a ruler over many." 

Again it is said: "and if they commit no murder, wherein they shed 
Innocent blood — yet they shall come forth in the first resurrection and 



XLII INTRODUCTION. 

enter into their exaltation; but they shall be destroyed in the flesh, and 
shall be delivered unto the bufferings of Satan unto the day of redemp- 
tion, saith the Lord God (v. 26). "The blasphemy against the Holy 
Ghost, which shall not be forgiven in the world, nor out of the world 
is in that ye commit murder, wherein ye shed innocent blood, and as- 
sent unto my death after ye have received my new and everlasting 
covenant (v. 27). That is to say, the doctrine is here set forth that the 
murderer hath not eternal life abiding in him (I Jno. 1: 15). There is 
no forgiveness for him in this world or in the world to come. The same 
idea is to be found in other revelations of Joseph Smith. Notably in 
section 42: "Behold, I speak unto the Church. Thou shalt not kill; 
and he that kills shall not have forgiveness in this world nor in the 
world to come" (v. 18); "if any persons among you shall kill, they shall 
be delivered up and dealt with according to the law of the land; for re- 
member, that he hath no forgiveness" (v. 79); then again and in con- 
nection with breaking covenant, note the following expression: ".And 
this is all according to the oath and covenant of the priesthood. * 
But whoso breaketh this covenant, after he hath received it, and alto- 
gether turned therefrom, shall not have forgiveness in this world or 
in the world to come (v. 39-40.) 

The expression "new and everlasting covenant" (v. 4) occurs several 
times in the revelation on marriage: "as pertaining to the new and 
everlasting covenant it was instituted," etc. (v. 6); "if a man marry a 
wife ***** by the new and everlasting covenant, and it is 
sealed, etc. (v. 19). The phrase occurs a number of other times in the 
revelation, viz., in verses 26, 27, 41 and 42. It occurs also in many 
other revelations bv Joseph Smith: In section 1 — "That mine everlast- 
ing covenant might be established" (v. 22); "this is a new and ever 
lasting covenant" (Sec. 22, 1); *'I have sent mine everlasting cove 
nant into the world" (Sec. 45: 9); same in Sec. 49, 9; 66, 2; 76, 101; 
78: 11, and in at least a score of other sections 

o. The Evidence of Recurrence of Principles in the Revelation on Mar- 
riage That are Found in Other Revelations Through Joseph Smith. 

Principles that appear in previous revelations reappear in this revela- 
tion on marriage: for example, it is said in Sec. 130: "There is a law 
irrevocably decreed in heaven, before the foundations of this world, 
upon which all blessings are predicated; and when we obtain any bless- 
ing from God it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicat- 
ed." In Sec. 88, occurs the following: "All kingdoms have a law 
given: and there are many kingdoms; and unto every kingdom is given 
a law; and unto every law there are certain bounds also and conditions. 
All beings who abide not in those conditions are not justified,* 1 verse 



INTRODUCTION . XLIII 

36 to 38, Id the revelation on marriage this doctrine is set forth in the 
following passage: "No one can reject this covenant and be permitted to 
enter into my glory; for all who will have a blessing at my hands shall 
abide the law which was appointed for that blessing, and the conditions 
thereof, as were instituted from before the foundation of the world. 
********* ^ n( j w -]j j appoint unto you, saith the 
Lord, except it be by law. even as I and my Father ordained unto you, 
before the world was! ***********j am th e 
Lord thy God, and will give unto thee the law of my Holy Priesthood, 
as was ordained by me, and my Father, before the world was," verses 
1, 5, 11, 28. The identity of the principle is complete, and tends to 
establish identity of authorship. 

6. The Evidence of the Particularization of Ideas. 

In the revelation on marriage there is a singularity of expression, 
which, for wan\, of a better term, I will call a particularization of ideas, 
thatis decidedly peculiar to the Prophet, for example: "And verily I say 
unto you, that the conditions of this law are these: All covenants, con- 
tracts, bonds, obligations, oaths, vows, performances, connections, as- 
sociations, or expectations, that are not made, and entered into, and 
sealed, by the Holy Spirit of promise, of him who is anointed, both 
as well for time and for all eternity, and that too most holy, by revela- 
tion and commandment through the medium of mine anointed, whom I 
have appointed on the earth to hold this power, (and I have appointed 
unto my servant Joseph to hold this power in the last days, and there 
is never but one on the earth, at a time, on whom this power and the 
keys of this Priesthood are conferred,) are of no efficacy, virtue or 
force, in and after the resurrection from the dead; for all contracts 
that are not made unto this end, have an end when men are dead- 
* * * * ^ n( j everything that is in the world, whether it be ordained 
of men, by thrones, or principalities, or powers, or things of name, 
whatsoever they may be, that are not by me, or by my word, saith the 
Lord, shall be thrown down, and shall not remain after men are dead, 
neither in nor after the resurrection, saith the Lord your God! " (verses 
7,13). 

A similar particularization of things is found in verses 15, 18, 19, 2G, 
30, 59, 61, of the revelation on marriage. 

With the above quoted passage compare the folio wiug: " Whoso re- 
ceiveth you receiveth me, and the same will feed you, and clothe you 
and give you money. And he who feeds you, or clothes you or gives 
you money, shall in no wise loose his reward: And he that doeth not 
these thinsrs is not my disciple; by this you may know my disciples. 
He that receiveth you not, go away from him alone by yourselves, and 



XLIV INTRODUCTION . 

cleanse your feet even with water, pure water, whether in heat or in 
cold, and bear testimony of it unto your Father which is in heaven, and 
return not again unto that man. And in whatsoever village or city ye 
enter, do likewise. Nevertheless, search diligently and spare not; and 
wo unto that house, or that village or city that rejecteth you, or your 
words, or your testimony concerning me. Wo, I say again, unto that 
house, or that village or city that rejecteth you, or your words, or your 
testimony of me." Sec. 81: 89-95. Similar passages of particulariza- 
tionfrequently occur in other revelations. The following is a notable 
example: 

"All thrones and dominions, principalities and powers, shall be re- 
vealed and set forth upon all who have endured valiantly for the Gos- 
pel of Jesus Christ; and also if there be bounds set to the neavens or 
to the seas; or to the dry land, or to the sun, moon, or stars; all the 
times of their revolutions; all the appointed days, months and years, 
and all the days of their months and years, and all their glories, laws 
and set times, shall be revealed in the days of the dispensation of the 
fullness of times, according to that which was ordained in the midst of 
the council of the eternal God of all other Gods, before the world was" 
(Doc. and Cov., Sec. 121: 29-31). 

7. Hie Evidences of Identity in Grandeur of Style. 

One other pecularity in the inspired style of the Prophet is seen in a 
certain growing grandeur in statement, by means of repetitions — repe- 
titions, too, that make a paragraph fairly scintillate with prismatic hues 
as well as giving to it a crescendo of emphasis: for example, in speaking 
of the glory that shall come to those who keep covenant with the Lord, 
it is written in this revelation on marriage: 

"And they shall pass by the angels, and the Gods which are set there, 
to their exaltation and glory in all things, as hath been sealed upon 
their heads, which glory shall be a fullness and a continuation of the 
seeds for ever and ever. 

Then shall they be Gods, because they have no end; 

Therefore shall they be from everlasting to everlasting, because they 
continue; 

Then shall they be above all, because all things are subject unto 
them. 

Then shall they be Gods, because they have all power, and the angels 
are subject unto them" * (verses 19-21). 

With this compare the following: 

* I have taken liberty of placing the lines in poetic form, to which they so readily 
lend themselves, that they may be the more readily compared with the verses from 
another revelation which follows from Doc. and Cov., sec. 84. 



INTRODUCTION. XLV 

"The power and authority of the Higher or Melchisedek, Priesthood, 
is to hold the keys of all the spiritual blessings of the Church — to have 
the privilege of receiving the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven — to 
have the heavens opened unto them — to commune with the general as- 
sembly and church of the first born, and to enjoy the communion and 
presence of God the Father, and Jesus the Mediator of the new cove- 
nant" (Sec. 107: 18, 19). Also this: 

"And if thou shouldst be cast into the pit, or into the hands of mur- 
derers, and the sentence of death passed upon thee; if thou be cast into 
the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds 
become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the ele- 
ments combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of 
hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that 
all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good. 
The Son of Man hath descended below them all; art thou greater than 
he!" 

And as covering both the two last peculiarities — particularization of 
things and a growing grandeur in statement by repetition, consider the 
following passage: 

"I the Almighty have laid my hands upon the nations, to scourge 
them for their wickedness: and plagues shall go forth, and they shall 
not be taken from the earth until I have completed my work which shall 
be cut short in righteousness, until all shall know me, who remain, 
even from the least unto the greatest, and shall be filled with the knowl- 
edge of the Lord, and shall see eye to eye, and shall lift up their voice, 
and with the voice together sing this new song, saying — 

The Lord hath brought again Zion; 
The Lord hath redeemed His people, Israel, 
According to the election of grace, 
Which was brought to pass by the faith 
And covenant of their fathers. 

The Lord hath redeemed His people, 
And Satan is bound and time is no longer: 
The Lord hath gathered all things in one: 
The Lord hath brought down Zion from above. 
The Lord hath brought up Zion from beneath. 

The earth hath travailed. and brought forth her strength: 
And truth is established in her bowels: 
And the heavens have smiled upon her: 
And she is clothed with the glory of her God: 
For He stands in the midst of His people: 

Glory, and honor, and power, and might, 

Be ascribed to our God; for He is full of mercy, 

Justice, grace and truth, and peace, 

For ever and ever. Amen. 



XLVI INTRODUCTION . 

It should be remarked, in conclusion, that these peculiarities of scope, 
structure, phraseology, re-appearance of principles, texture of compo- 
sition and the like, which identify this revelation on marriage as the 
composition of Joseph Smith (under the inspiration of the Lord, of 
course) are not forced into the revelation. Its composition gives no 
evidence of being a conglomerate of Joseph Smith's thought-gems held 
together by some one else's clay. It is all of one piece, it is not patch 
work. Unity above all things is characteristic of it. Words, phrases, 
sentences, ideas all blend together, preserving strict unity of style and 
that style Joseph Smith's. No one else could have written it. The 
literary peculiarities of that revelation as readily proclaim it to be Jo- 
seph Smith's composition to those familiar with his literary style, as the 
contour of his face, the form of his features, the color of his hair and 
eyes, the tint of his complexion, the intonation of his voice, together with 
his form and bearing would reveal his physical personality to those who 
familiarly knew him in life. There will be no doubt whatever as to 
Joseph Smith being the author of it in the minds of those who will give 
it literary analysis. Whatever has come of it, or whatever may come 
of it in the future, Joseph Smith is the author of that revelation, and is 
responsible before God and the world for the introduciion of that mar- 
riage law into the Church — the law that contemplates marriage as an 
eternal union, and the rightfulness of a plurality of wives under certain 
conditions and divine sanctions, when permissible under the laws of 
the land and the law of the Church. 



HISTORY 

OF THE 

Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter-day Saints. 

VOL. V. 



HISTORY 

OF THE 

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST 



OF 



LATTER-DAY SAINTS. 



PERIOD I. 

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH, THE PROPHET. 



CHAPTER I. 

INAUGURATION OF ENDOWMENT CEREMONIES — PERFIDY AND 
EXPOSURE OF JOHN C. BENNETT — HIS RESIGNATION AS 
MAYOR OF NAUVOO— EPISTLE OF THE HIGH COUNCIL TO 

THE SAINTS. 

Tuesday, May 5, 1842, — Passed the day mostly with 
my family. _ 

Wednesday, 4. — I spent the day in the tipper part of the 
store, that is in my private office (so called because in that 
room I keep my sacred writings, translate ancient rec- 
ords, and receive revelations) and in my general business 
office, or lodge room (that is where the Ma- , 

. ,, n inauguration 

sonic fraternity meet occasionally, for want of of Endowment 
a better place) in council with General James 
Adams, of Springfield, Patriarch Hyrum Smith, Bishops 
Newel K. Whitney and George Miller, and President 



2 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

Brigham Young and Elders Heber C. Kimball and Wil- 
lard Richards, instructing them in the principles and order 
of the Priesthood, attending to washings, anointings, en- 
dowments and the communication of keys pertaining to the 
Aaronic Priesthood, and so on to the highest order of the 
Melchisedek Priesthood, setting forth the order pertaining 
to the Ancient of Days, and all those plans and principles 
by which any one is enabled to secure the fullness of those 
blessings which have been prepared for the Church of the 
First Born, and come up and abide in the presence of the 
Eloheim in the eternal worlds. In this council was insti- 
tuted the ancient order of things for the first time in these 
last days. And the communications I made to this coun- 
cil were of things spiritual, and to be received only by the 
spiritual minded: and there was nothing made known to 
these men but what will be made known to all the Saints 
of the last days, so soon as they are prepared to receive, 
and a proper place is prepared to communicate them, 
even to the weakest of the Saints; therefore let the Saints 
be diligent in building the Temple, and all houses 
which they have been, or shall hereafter be, commanded 
of God to build; and wait their time with patience in all 
meekness, faith, perseverance unto the end, knowing 
assuredly that all these things referred to in this council 
are always governed by the principle of revelation.* 
Thursday, 5.— General Adams started for Springfield, 

* This is the Prophet's account of the introduction of the Endowment ceremonies 
*n this dispensation, and is the foundation of the sacred ritual of the temples. 
There has been some controversies as to the time when these ceremonies wer e 
introduced into the Church. A sect styling itself the "Re -organized Church," even 
goes so far as to claim that these ceremonies were not introduced into the Church by 
the Prophet Joseph Smith at all, but on the contrary claim that they had their 
origin with Brigham Young and the Apostles who followed him in the migration 
from Xauvoo to Great Salt Lake Valley in Utah. The evidence, however, against 
such claims, is overwhelming. First, the statement of the Prophet in the tex* 
above. Second, a previous allusion to the same thing in his remarks at Nauvoo, on 
the 6th of January, 1842. (See History of the Church, Vol. IV. p. 492.) Third, 
the same ceremonies are referred to in the Revelation of Jan. 19, 1841, in which 
washings, anointings, conversations, statutes, judgments, etc., are explicitly 
referred to. (History of the Church, Vol. IV, p. 277.) In addition to this evi- 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 6 

and the remainder of the council of yesterday continued 
their meeting at the same place, and myself and Brother 
Hyrum received in turn from the others, the same that I 
had communicated to them the day previous. 

The city of Hamburg, the commercial emporium of Ger- 
many, was destroyed by fire, about this time. 

Friday, 6. — I attended the Legion officers' drill in the 
morning, and visited Lyman Wight, who was sick. 
* Saturday, 7. — 

Legion History. 

The Nauvoo Legion was on parade by virtue of an order of the 25th 
of January, 1842, and was reviewed by Lieutenant-General Joseph 
Smith, who commanded through the day. One year since, the Legion 
consisted of six companies; today of twenty-six companies, amounting 
to about two thousand troops. 

The consolidated staff of the Legion with their ladies, partook of a 
sumptuous dinner at the house of the commander-in-chief, between 
one and three o'clock, p. m. The weather was very fine. 

In the afternoon the Legion was separated into cohorts, and fought an 
animated sham battle; the first cohort under the command of General 
Wilson Law, the second under General Charles C. Kich. At the close 
of the parade, Lieutenant-Genera] Joseph Smith delivered a most ani- 
mated and appropriate address, in which he remarked "that his soul 
was never better satisfied than on this occasion. " Such was the 
curious and interesting excitement which prevailed at the time, in the 
surrounding country, about the Legion, that Judge Douglas adjourned 
the circuit court, then in session at Carthage, and came with some of 
the principal lawyers, to see the splendid military parade of the Legion; 
upon notice of which beine: given to General Smith, he immediately 
invited them to partake of the repast prepared as above. 

dence also, Ebenezer Robinson, associate editor of the Times and Seasons when 
that periodical was founded by Don Carlos Smith and himself, and who at the 
death of Don Carlos Smith, 1841, became editor-in-chief of that periodical, and so 
continued until the 15th of March, 1842 — declares that such ceremonies as are 
alluded to in the text were inaugurated by special action of the Prophet as early as 
1843. Mr. Robinson subsequently left the Church, but when in 1890, the aforesaid 
self-styled "Re-organized Church" persisted in claiming that Joseph Smith the 
Prophet did not inaugurate these Temple ceremonies, he published an article in the 
magazine he was then conducting, called The Return, in which he bears emphatic 
testimony to the effect above stated, namely,that all these ceremonies were introduced 
into the Church by the Prophet Joseph Smith at least as early as 1843. [See The 
Beturn, Vol. II, No. 4, p. 252. J 



4 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

In addition to this quotation, I would remark that the 
day passed very harmoniously, without drunkenness, noise 
or confusion. There was an immense congregation of 
g n ai joh spectators, and many distinguished strangers 
c. Bennett's expressed much satisfaction. But one thing 
I will notice : I was solicited by General Ben- 
nett to take command of the first cohort during the sham 
battle; this I declined. General Bennett next requested 
me to take my station in the rear of the cavalry, without 
my staff, during the engagement; but this was counter- 
acted by Captain A. P. Rockwood, commander of my life 
guards, who kept close to my side, and I chose my own 
position. And if General Bennett's true feelings toward 
me are not made manifest to the world in a vary short 
time, then it may be possible that the gentle breathings of 
that Spirit, which whispered me on parade, that there was 
mischief concealed in that sham battle, were false; a short 
time will determine the point. Let John C. Bennett 
answer at the day of judgment, "Why did you request 
me to command one of the cohorts, and also to take my 
position without my staff, during the sham battle, on the 
7th of May, 1842, where my life might have been the for- 
feit, and no man have known who did the deed? 

The following diagram shows the position in which the 
Legion was drawn up : 



A.D. 1342J 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



Lieutenant-General Joseph Smith, Staff, Guard, 
and Ladies on horseback. 



Band of Music. 



Major-General J. C. Bennett and Staff. 






u 



C5 



PQ 



> 
o 

-4— 

o 
o 

o 



O 

P 

P 






tr 1 

p 

p 

B 
S^ 

GQ 

P 
P3 



3 5-* £ 

Q o g 

CD 

B. 5 ° 

5- CD CO 

tr 2 ^ 



Artillery. 



A violent shock of an earthquake is reported to have been 
experienced at the island of St. Domingo, at twenty min- 
utes past seven, p. m. It was also felt at St. Marc, Gon- 
aives, and Cape Haytien, and at various Eanh uake 
places from Port-au-Prince, to the base of the in st. Domin- 
Rocky Mountains, comprising a distance of 
1,500 miles. At Santiago de Cuba the cathedral and sev- 
eral extensive buildings were prostrated. About ten 
thousand persons were killed at Cape Haytien. 



6 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. LA. D. 1842 

Sunday, 8. — Attended meeting at the grove, and heard 
Elder Rigdon preach. 

After meeting many persons were baptized, some in the 
font, others in the river. 

Eighty persons killed and as many wounded, by an 
accident on the Paris and Versailles railroad, the car- 
riages being consumed by fire, and their passengers 
roasted alive. 

Monday, 9. — Spent the day with my family. 

Tuesday, 10. — Transacted a variety of business at the 
store, printing office, &c. 

By letter from Elder Levi Richards, dated at Liverpool, 
we learn that the work is progressing in the 
Engia^d. rk in nort h of England, namely, Carlisle, Bramp- 
ton, Burnstones, Alstone, and Newcastle-upon- 
Tyne, where he has been laboring for a few weeks. 

Wednesday, 11. — Called with my clerk at Brother 
Joseph W. Coolidge's to examine a new cabinet for the 
Temple Recorder's office; also called at Bishop Knight's; 
dictated several letters and other items of a business 
nature. 

Thursday, 12. — Dictated a letter to Elder Rigdon con- 
cerning certain difficulties, or surmises which existed and 
attended the meeting of the Female Relief Society, the house 
being filled to overflowing. There was a heavy thunder- 
storm at the close of the meeting. 

Friday, 13. — Received a letter from Sidney Rigdon in 
reply to mine of yesterday. 

Spent most of the day in my garden and with my 
family. 

Dictated the following letter to Horace R.Hotchkiss, Esq. 

The FropheVs Letter to Horace JR. Hotchkiss. — Explaining why the Former 
'had taken Advantage of the Bankrupt Lazv. 
Dear Sir — I proceed without delay to give a hasty reply to yours of 
the 12th ultimo, just received. My engagements will not admit of a 
lengthy datail of events and circumstances which have transpired to 
bring about that state of things which now exists in this place, as be- 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. * 

fore you receive this you will probably be apprised of the failure of 
myself and brethren to execute our designs in paying off our contracts, 
or in other words, that we have been compelled to pay our debts by 
the most popular method; that is by petitioning for the privilege of 
general bankruptcy, a principle so popular at the present moment 
throughout the Union. 

A pressure of business has been sufficient excuse for not giving you 
earlier notice, although it could have been of no real use to you, yet I 
wish you to understand our intentions to you and your company, and 
why we have taken the course we have. You are aware, sir, in 
some measure of the embarrassment under which we have labored 
through the influence of mobs and designing men, and the disadvan- 
tageous circumstances under which we have been compelled to con- 
tract debts in order to our existence, both as individuals and as a 
society, and it is on account ,of this as well as a pressure on us for debts 
absolutely unjust in themselves, that we have been compelled to resort 
to the course we have [taken] to make a general settlement, and this we » 
deferred to the last moment, hoping that something would turn in 
our favor, so that we might be saved the painful necessity of resorting 
to such measures, to accomplish which, justice demanded a very different 
course from those who are justly our debtors, but demanded in vain. 

We have been compelled to the course we have pursued, and you are 
aware, sir, that all have to fare alike in such cases* But, sir, you have 
one, yea, two things to comfort you; our faith, intention and good 
feeling remain the same to all our creditors, and to none more than 
yourself; and secondly, there is property sufficent in the inventory to 
pay every debt, and some to spare, according to the testimony of our 
solicitors, and the good judgment of others; and if the court will 
allow us some one for assignee, who will do justice to the cause, we 
confidently believe that yourself and all others will get their compensa- 
tion in full, and we have enough left for one loaf more for each of our fam- 
ilies. Yes, and I have no doubt you will yet, and in a short time.be enabled 
to have your pay in full, in the way I have before proposed, or some 
other equally advantageous, but money is out of sight, it might as 
well be out of mind, for it cannot be had. 

Rest assured, dear sir, that no influence or exertion I can yet make 
shall be wanting to give you satisfaction, and liquidate your claims, but 
for a little season you are aware that all proceedings are staid; but I 
will seek the earliest moment to acquaint you with anything new in 
this matter. 

I remain, sir, with sentiments of respect, your friend and well- 
wisher, 

Joseph Smith. 



8 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1842 

|| In the evening I walked with Elder Richards to the 
interview P ost °^ ce ^ an d h a( * an interview with Elder 
m it don Sidney ^S^ on ? concerning certain evil reports put in 
circulation by Francis M. Higbee, about some 
of Elder Eigdon's family, and others; much apparent 
satisfaction was manifested at the conversation, by Elder 
Rigdon; and Elder Richards returned with me to my 
house. 

Saturday, 14. — I attended city council iu the morning, 
and advocated strongly the necessity of some active 
Moral lm- measures being taken to suppress houses and 
provement of acts of infamy in the city ; for the protection 
of the innocent and virtuous, and the good of 
public morals ; showing clearly that there were certain 
characters in the place, who were disposed to corrupt the 
morals and chastity of our citizens, and that houses of 
infamy did exist, upon which a city ordinance concern- 
ing brothels and disorderly characters was passed, to pro- 
hibit such things. It was published in this day's Wasp. 

I also spoke at length for the repeal of the ordinance of 
the city licensing merchants, hawkers, taverns, and 
ordinaries, desiring that this might be a free people, and 
enjoy equal rights and privileges, and the ordinances 
were repealed. 

After council, I worked in my garden, walked out in 
the city, and borrowed two sovereigns to make a pay- 
ment. 

Brother Amos Fielding arrived from Liverpool. 

It was reported in Nauvoo, that ex-Grovernor Boggs of 
Missouri had been shot. 

I granted the petition of J. B. Nicholson, and about 
seventy other members of the Church in 
fzation ?o r r gau " Philadelphia, for the organization of a branch 
lulhodzed a of the Church in the north part of the city, 
dated April 2 2nd, and my doings were sanc- 
tioned by the Twelve, who at the same time silenced 



A.D. 1842| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 9 

Elder Benjamin "Winchester for not following counsel. 

Sunday, 15. — Attended meeting at the stand. 

News of the attempted assassination of Governor Boggs 
was confirmed by general report, and was mentioned on 
the stand. 

A general conference was held in the new Corn Ex- 
change, Manchester, England, President Par- 
ley P. Pratt presiding. There were present at ference in 0I 
the opening of the conference, High Priests, England - 
14; Elders, 50; Priests, 64; Teachers, 37; Deacons, 8. 
The representation of the Church was as follows : 



Manchester Conference represented by Charles Miller, consists of 
1,531 members, 3G Elders, 79 Priests, 50 Teachers, 19 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Manchester, Duckinfield, Bolton, Stockport, 
Pendlebury, Whitefield, Heatons, Eccles, Oldham, Rochdale, Leeds, 
Radcliffe, Bridge and Blakely. 

Liverpool Conference, represented by John Greenhow, consists of 
570 members, 23 Elders, 2G Priests, 21 Teachers, 10 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Liverpool, Warrington and Newton, St. 
Helens, Isle of Man, Wales, and York. 

Preston Conference, represented by Elder Struthars, consists of 
665 members, 16 Elders, 22 Priests, 15 Teachers, 3 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Preston, Penworthen, Long-ton, Southport, 
Farrington, Hunter's Hill, Kendal, Brigsteer, Holme, Lancaster, and 
Euxton Birth. 

Clitheroe Conference represented by Thomas Ward, consists of 325 
members, 15 Elders, 23 Priests, 17 Teachers, 6 Deacons, and includes 
the branches of Clitheroe, Chatburn, Waddington, Downham, Black- 
burn, Burnley, Accrington, Ribchester, Chaidgley, and Grindleton. 

London Conference, represented by Lorenzo Snow, consists of 400 
members, 14 Elders, 32 Priests, 7 Teachers, 8 Deacons, and includes 
the branches of London, Woolwich, Bedford, Wybosson, Thorucut, 
Honeydon, Irchester, and Waddon. 

Macclesfield Conference, represented by James Galley, consists of 
238 members, 8 Elders, 23 Priests, 14 Teachers, 9 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Macclesfield, Congleton, Bollington, Middle- 
wich, North wich and Plumbley. 

Birmingham Conference, represented by J. Riley, consists of 309 
members, 11 Elders, 18 Priests, 12 Teachers, 5 Deacons, and includes 



10 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. fA. U.18i2 

the branches of Birmingham, Great's Green, West Broomwich,01dbury, 
Allchurch, Dudley, Wolverhampton, and Ashby Wolds. 

Staffordshire Conference, represented by Alfred Cordon, consists of 
507 members, 25 Elders, 54 Priests, 23 Teachers, 14 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Hanley, Burslem, Stoke, Newcastle, Baddaley 
Edge, Bradley Green, Knutton Heath, Lane End, Audlem, Prees, Tun- 
stall, Leek, Longport, Tittensor Heath, Doncaster, Sheffield and 
Brampton. 

Garway Conference, represented by John Needham, consists of 197 
members, 2 Elders, 12 Priests, 7 Teachers, 2 Deacons, and includes the 
branches of Garway, Abergavenny, Monmouth, Keven, Orcop, and 
Euyasharrold. 

Cheltenham Conference, represented by Theodore Curtis, consists of 
540 members, 8 Elders, 22 Priests, 12 Teachers, 4 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Newbury Hill, Rock Hill, Earl's Common, 
Pinvin, Dounton Beaucamp, Edge Hills, Little Dean, Woodside, Pon- 
sett, Killcott, Frogsmarsh, Red Marley, Bran Green, Apperley, Deer- 
hurst, Cheltenham, Norton, and Bristol. 

Froom's Hill Conference, represented by William Kay, consists of 
1,101 members, 24 Elders, 56 Priests, 24 Teachers, 12 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Moor End's Cross, Ridgway Cross, Dun's Close, 
Old Storridge, Broomyard's Downs, Clifton, Widbourn, Brinesteed, 
Woofren Common, Ashfield, Malvern Hill, Palle House, Callwell, 
Ledbury, Shaken Hill, Lugwardine, Marden, Bushbank, Leominster, 
Ball Gate, Coom's Move, Stoke's Lane, Froom's Hill, Stanley Hill, 
Easthampton, and Worcester Broad Heath. 

Edinburgh Conference, represented by George D. Watt, consists of 
271 members, 13 Elders, 19 Priests, 7 Teachers, 3 Deacons, and 
includes the branches of Edinburgh, Wemyss, and Sterling. 

Glasgow Conference represented by John McAuley, consists of 564 
members, 22 Elders, 30 Priests, 26 Teachers, 15 Deacons, and includes 
the branches of Glasgow, Thorny Bank, Shaw, Toll Cross, Airdrie, 
Renfrew, Paisley, Johnson, Bridge of Weir, Kilbirnie, Bonshill, 
Greenock, Brechenney, Nelson, Campsie and Ayr. 

Brampton Conference, represented by Richard Benson, consists of 
171 members, 6 Elders, 11 Priests, 7 Teachers, 2 Deacons, and includes 
the branches of Carlisle, Brampton, Alston, and Newcastle-upon-Tyne. 

Irish Conference, represented by David Wilkie, consists of 71 mem- 
bers, 1 Elder, 1 "Priest, 2 Teachers, 1 Deacon, and includes the 
branches of Hillsborough, and Crawfoot's Burn. 

Bradford and York, represented by Henry Cuerden, consists of 54 
members, 1 Elder, 4 Priests. 2 Teachers, 1 Deacon. 

Total connected with the Church at the present time, in England, 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 11 

Ireland, and Scotland, members, 7JH4^ Elders, 220, Priests, 421; 
Teachers, 110. 

Monday, 16.— 1 was transacting business at the store 
until 10 o'clock a. m. Then at home. In the afternoon 
at the printing office, in council with Brothers Young, 
Kimball and Richards and others. 

I published in this day's Times and Seasons the follow- 
ing facsimile from the Book of Abraham.* 

Several of the most widely circulated papers are begin- 
ning to exhibit "Mormonism" in its true 
light. The first out of a facsimile from the fhf^ss?* 
Book of Abraham, has been republished both 
in the New York Herald and in the Dollar Week Bos- 
Ionian, as well as in the Boston Daily Ledger, edited by Mr. 
Bartlett ; together with the translation from the Book of 
Abraham. 

Tuesday, 17.— I was about home, and at the office 
through the day. In the evening went to Brother John 
Snyder's to see Clark Leal, of Fountain Green, concern- 
ing a quarter section of land. 

Affidavit of John C, Bennett. 

State of Illinois, city of Nauvoo, personally appeared before me, 
Daniel H. Wells, an Alderman of the said city of Nauvoo, John C. 
Bennett, who being duly sworn, according to law, desposeth and say- 
eth, that he was never taught anything in the least contrary to the 
strictest principles of the Gospel, or of virtue or of the laws of God or 
man, under any circumstances, or upon any occasion, either directly or 
indirectly, in word or deed, by Joseph Smith, and that he never knew 
the said Smith to countenance any improper conduct whatever either in 
public or private ; and that he never did teach to me in private that an 
illegal, illicit intercourse with females, was under any circumstance 
justifiable, and that I never knew him to so teach others. 

John C. Bennett. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 17th day of May, A. 
D. 1842. Daniel H. Wells, Alderman. 

* The facsimile referred to will be found on page 523 of Vol. IV of this History, 
where it is published in connection with an explanation of the various figures on 
the plate and preceding the Prophet's translation of the* Book of Abraham, taken 
from the Times and Seasons. 



12 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

John 0. Bennett resigned the office of mayor of 
Nauvoo. 

Wednesday , IS. — Rode on horseback, accompanied by 
Dr. Richards and Clark Leal, to John Benbow's, and 
searched out the N. E. quarter of section 15, 6 N. 8 W. 
and contracted for the refusal of the same, at three dol- 
lars per acre; dined at Brother Benbow's, visited Brother 
Sayer's, &c, which, with business at the different offices, 
closed the day. 

There was a general representation of the branches in 
the Eastern States, at a conference of the Church at New 
York. 

Thursday , 19. — It rained, and I was at home until one 
o'clock; when I attended a special session of the city 
Resignation council. John C. Beunett having discovered 
of Bennett as ^^ j^jg whoredoms and abominations were fast 

Mayor 

of Nauvoo. coming to light, and that the indignation of 
an insulted and abused people were rising rapidly against 
him, thought best to make a virtue of necessity, and try 
to make it appear that he was innocent, by- resigning his 
office of mayor, which the council most gladly accepted; 
and Joseph Smith was elected mayor of the city of Nau- 
voo by the council, and Hyrum Smith vice-mayor. 

While the election was going forward, I received and 
wrote the following revelation : 

Revelation, 

Verily thus saith the Lord unto you, my servant Joseph, by the 
voice of my Spirit, Hiram Kimball has been insinuating evil, and form- 
ing evil opinions against you, with others; and it* he continue in them, 
he and they shall be accursed, for I am the Lord thy God, and will stand 
by thee and bless thee. Amen. 

This I threw across the room to Hiram Kimball, one of 
the councillors. After the election, I spoke at some length 
concerning the evil reports which were abroad in the city 
concerning myself, and the necessity of counteracting the 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH 13 

designs of our enemies, establishing a night watch, &c, 
whereupon the council resolved that the mayor be author- 
ized to establish a night watch, and control the same. 

William Smith was elected councilor in place of Joseph 
Smith, elected mayor; George A. Smith councilor, in place 
of Hugh McFall, removed from the city. 

On account of the reports in circulation in the city this 
day, concerning the ex-mayor, and to quiet the public 
mind, before the council closed, I asked John C. Bennett 
if he had aught against me, when Dr. Bennett arose, be- 
fore the council and a house filled with spectators, and 
replied : 

Statement of John C. Bennett before the City Council. 

I know what I am about, and the heads of the Church know what 
they are about, I expect; I have no difficulty with the heads of the 
Church. I publicly avow that any one who has said that I have stated 
that General Joseph Smith has given me authority to hold illicit inter- 
course with women is a liar in the face of God. Those who have said 
it are damned liars; they are infernal liars. He never either in public 
or private gave me any such authority or license, and any person who 
states it is a scoundrel and a liar. I have heard it said, that I would 
become a second Avard, by withdrawing from the Church, and that I 
was at variance with the heads, and would use an influence against 
them, because I resigned the office of mayor. This is false, I have no 
difficulty with the heads of the Church, and I intend to continue with 
you, and hope the time may come when I may be restored to full confi- 
dence, fellowship, and my former standing in the Church, and that my 
conduct may be such as to warrant my restoration, and should the fime 
ever come that I may have the opportunity to test my faith, it will then 
be known whether I am a traitor or true man. 

I then said to him, "Will you please state definitely 
whether you know anything against my character, either 
in public or private?" General Bennett replied, "I do 
not. In all my intercourse with General Smith, in public 
and in private, he has been strictly virtuous." 

I then made some pertinent remarks before the council, 
concerning those who had been guilty of circulating false 
leports, &c, and said: 



14 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |A.D. 1842 

Let one twelve months see if Brother Joseph is not 
called for, to go to every part of the city to keep them out 
of their graves ; and I turn the keys upon them from this 
hour, if they will not repent and stop their lyings and sur- 
misings, let God curse them, and let their tongues cleave 
to the roofs of their mouths. 

Friday, 20. — Charges having been preferred against 
Robert D. Foster, by Samuel H. Smith before a special 
charge council, for abusive language towards Samuel 

Robe?? dfos- ^. Smith; also for abusing the marshal of 
ter - the city, I spent the day in council, and such 

was the proof against Foster, I had considerable labor to 
get him clear, even after his confession, which I desired 
to do, hoping he would amend. 

Saturday, 21. — I spent the day with the High Council 
of Nauvoo, investigating the case of Robert D. Foster, 
Chauncey L. Higbee and others. 

Sunday ,22.-1 spent the day mostly at home . In looking 
at the papers, I discovered the following in the Quincy 
Whig: 

ASSASSINATION OF EX-GOVERNOR BOGGS OF MISSOURI. 

Lilburn W. Boggs, late governor of Missouri, was assassinated at his 
residence in Independence, Missouri, by an unknown hand, on the 6th 
instant. He was sitting in a room by himself, when some person dis- 
charged a pistol loaded with buckshot, through an adjoining window, 
three of the shots took effect in his head, one of which penetrated the 
brain. His son, a boy, hearing the report of the pistol, ran into the 
room in which his father was seated, and found him in a helpless situ- 
ation, upon which he gave the alarm. Footprints were found beneath 
the window, and the pistol which gave the fatal shot. The governor was 
alive on the seventh, but no hopes are entertained of his recovery. A 
man was suspected, and is probably arrested before this. There are 
several rumors in circulation in regard to the horrid affair; one of 
which throws the crime upon the Mormons, from the fact, we suppose, 
that Mr. Boggs was governor at the time, and in no small decree in- 
strumental in driving them from the state. Smith, too, the Mormon 
Prophet, as we understand, prophesied, a year or so ago, his death by 



A.O. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 15 

violent means. Hence, there is plenty of foundation for rumor. The 
citizens of Independence had offered a reward of $500 for the mur- 
derer. 

I went to the editor's office, and inserted the following 
in the Wasp: 

Nauvoo, Illinois, May 22, 1842. 
Mr. Bartlett: 

Dear Sir: — In your paper (the Qaincy Whig) of the 21st instant, 
you have done me manifest injustice in ascribing to me a prediction of 
the demise of Lilburn W. Boggs, Esq., ex-governor of Missouri, by vio- 
lent hands. Boggs was a candidate for the state senate, and, I pre- 
sume, fell by the hand of a political opponent, with "his hands and 
face yet dripping with the blood of murder; " but he died not through 
my instrumentality. My hands are clean, and my heart pure, from the 
blood of all men. I am tired of the misrepresentation, calumny and 
detraction, heaped upon me by wicked men; and desire and claim, only 
those principles guaranteed to all men by the Constitution and laws of 
the United States and of Illinois. Will you do me the justice to publish 
this communication? and oblige, 

Yours respectfully, 

[Sighed] Joseph Smith. 

An Epistle of the High Council of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- 
day Saints in Nauvoo, to the Saints scattered abroad, Greeting: 

Dear Brethren: — Inasmuch as the Lord hath spoken, and the com- 
mandment hath gone forth for the gathering together of His people 
from Babylon, that "they partake not of her sins, and receive not of 
her plagues; n it seemeth, "good unto us, and also to the Holy Ghost" 
to write somewhat for your instruction, in obeying that commandment. 
That you have no need that we exhort you to the observance of this 
commandment, is evident; for you yourselves know that this is that 
which was spoken by the Lord, in the parable of the tares of the field, 
who promised, that in the harvest he would say to the servant "gather 
the wheat into my barn; " the signs of the times proclaim this — the end 
of the world; and thus admonish us to the performance of this duty. 
"Yet notwithstanding the Spirit testifieth of these things, and you de- 
sire with great anxiety to gather with the Saints; yet are many of you 
hindered even to this day;" so that to will to obey the commandment 
is present; but how to perform, you find not. Feeling, therefore, the 



16 HISTORY OF THE CHUBCH. [A.T>. 1842 

responsibility binding on you to observe the statutes and commandments 
of the Lord, and living in the midst of a generation that are ignorant 
of what the mind of the Lord is concerning His people, and of the things 
that belong to their peace; we are well aware of the embarrassments 
under which many of you labor in endeavoring to obey the laws per- 
taining to your salvation. It is then no marvel that in this day when 
darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people, that this gen- 
eration who know not the day of their visitation, nor the dispensation 
of the fullness of times in which they live, should mock at the gather- 
ing together of the Saints for salvatiou, as did the antediluvians at the 
mighty work of righteous Noah, in building an ark in the midst of the 
land, for the salvation of his home by water; seeing then that such 
"blindness hath happened to the Gentile world, which to them is an 
evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation," and that of God, 
think it not strange that you should have to pass through the like afflic- 
tions which all your brethren the saints in all ages have done before 
you; to be reviled, persecuted, and hated of all men, for the name of 
Christ and the Gospel's sake, is the portion which all saints have had 
to partake, who have gone before you. You then can expect no better 
things than that there be men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning 
the truth, who will evil entreat you, and unjustly despoil you of your 
property and embarrass you in pecuniary matters, and render it the 
more difficult to obey the command to gather with the Saints; pretend- 
ing to do God's service, '* whose judgment now lingereth not, and their 
damnation slumbereth not." 

But, brethren, with all these considerations before you, in relation to 
your afflictions; we think it expedient to admonish you, that you bear, 
and forbear, as becometh Saints, and having done all that is lawful and 
right, to obtain justice of those that injure you, wherein you come short 
of obtaining it, commit the residue to the just judgment of God, and 
shake off the dust of your feet as a testimony of having done so. 

Finally, brethren, as it is reported unto us, that there be some who 
have not done that which is lawful and right, but have designedly done 
injury to their neighbor or creditor by fraud, or otherwise, thinking to 
find protection with us in such iniquity; let all such be warned and 
certified, that with them we have no fellowship, when known to be such, 
until all reasonable measures are taken to make just restitution to those 
unjustly injured. Now, therefore, let this epistle be read in all the 
branches of the Church, as testimony, that as representatives thereof, 
we have taken righteousness for the girdle of your loins, and faithful- 
ness for the girdle of our reins, "and that for Zion's sake we will not 
rest; and for Jerusalem's sake we will not hold our peace, until the 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 17 

righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation there- 
of, as a lamp that burneth." 

Your brethren and servants in the kingdom and patience of Jesus. 

William Marks, } 
Austin Cowles, > Presidents. 
Charles C. Rich, ) 
James Allred, 
Elias Higbee, 
George W. Harris, 
Aaron Johnson, 
William Huntington, Sen., 
Henry G. Sherwood, 
Samuel E. Bent, 
Lewis D. Wilson, 
David Fullmer, 
Thomas Grover, 
Newel Knight, 
Leonard Soby. 
Attest: Hosea Stout, Clerk. 
May 22, 1842. 



18 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 



CHAPTER II. 

ACTIONS IN RELATION TO JOHN 0. BENNETT ET AL. — THE 
PROPHET'S INSTRUCTIONS TO THE RELIEF SOCIETY — 
TREATISE ON THE "HOLY GHOST 5 ' — WILLIAM LAW'S 
DEFENSE OF THE SAINTS — THE PROPHET' S ADDRESS TO 
THE CHURCH. 

Monday, May 23, 1842. — I called a special session of 
the city council, at which Diurick B. Huntington was 
elected coroner of the city of Nauvoo. 

Tuesday, 24. — Chauncey L. Higbee was cut off from 

the Church by the High Council, for unchaste and un- 

virtuous conduct towards certain females, and 

The Fall of , . ' 

chauncey l. for teaching it was right, if kept secret, &c. 

Higbee 

He was also put under $200 bonds to keep the 
peace, on my complaint against him for slander, before 
Ebenezer Robinson, justice of the peace. 

Wednesday , 25. — 1 spent the day in counseling the 
Bishops, and assisting them to expose iniquity. 

Notice was this day given to John C. Bennett, that the 
First Presidency, Twelve, and Bishops had withdrawn 
fellowship from him, and were about to publish him in 
the paper, but on his humbling himself, and begging we 
would spare him from the paper, for his mother's sake, 
the notice was withdrawn from the paper. 

Thursday, 26. — This forenoon I attended a meeting of 

nearly a hundred of the brethren in the Lodge Room, to 

whom John C. Bennett acknowledged his 

Confessions . 

of John c. wicked and licentious conduct toward cer- 
tain females in Nauvoo, and that he was 
worthy of the severest chastisements, and cried like a 



A.D. 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 19 

child, and begged that he might be spared, in any possi- 
ble way ; so deep was his apparent sense of his guilt and 
unfitness for respectable society; so deeply did he feign, 
or really feel contrition for the moment, that he was for- 
given still. I plead for mercy for him. 

At one p. m. I attended a large and respectable meeting 
of the citizens of Nauvoo, near the Temple, 

_ _ _ _ J _ ' . _ n The Prophet's 

and addressed them on the principles of gov- Political a«i- 
ernment, at considerable length, showing that 
I did not intend to vote the Whig or Democratic ticket as 
such, but would go for those who would support good 
order, &c. 

The meeting nominated candidates for senators, repre- 
sentatives, and other officers, and expressed their entire 
disapprobation of the Quincy Whig, relative to my being 
concerned against Governor Boggs. 

I met with the Ladies' Relief Society, and gave them a 
short address; a synopsis was reported by Miss E. R. 
Snow. 

Address oj the Prophet to the Relief Society. 

President Joseph Smith read the 14th chapter of Ezekiel — -said the 
Lord had declared by the Prophet, that the people should each one 
stand for himself, and depend on no man or men in that state of 
corruption of the Jewish church — that righteous persons could only de- 
liver their own souls — applied it to the present state of the Church of 
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — said if the people departed from the 
Lord, they must fall — that they were depending on the Prophet, hence 
were darkened in their minds, in consequence of neglecting the duties 
devolving upon themselves, envious towards the innocent, while they 
afflict the virtuous with their shafts of envy. 

There is another error which ope as a door for the adversary to en- 
ter. As females possess refined feelings and sensitiveness, they are 
also subject to overmuch zeal, which must ever prove dangerous, and 
cause them to be rigid in a religious capacity — [they] should be armed 
with mercy, notwithstanding the iniquity among us. 

Said he had been instrumental in bringing iniquity to light — it was a 
melancholy thought and awful that so many should place themselves 
under the condemnation of the devil, and going to perdition. With 



20 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

deep feeling he said that they are fellow mortals, we loved them once, 
shall we not encourage them to reformation 1 ? We have not Tyet] forgiven 
them seventy times seven, as our Savior directed; perhaps we have not 
forgiven them once. There is now a day of salvation to such as repent 
and reform; — and they who repent not should be cast out from this 
society; yet we should woo them to return to God, lest they escape 
not the damnation of hell! Where there is a mountain top, there is also 
a valley — we should act in all things on a proper medium to every im- 
mortal spirit. Notwithstanding the unworthy are among us, the virtu- 
ous should not, from self importance, grieve and oppress needlessly, 
those unfortunate ones — even these should be encouraged to hereafter 
live to be honored by this society, who are the best portions of the com- 
munity. Said he had two things to recommend to the members of this 
society, to put a double watch over the tongue : no organized body can 
exist without this at all. All organized bodies have their peculiar evils, 
weaknesses and difficulties, the object is to make those not so good re- 
form and return to the path of virtue that they may be numbered with 
the good, and even hold the keys of power, which will influence to vir- 
tue and goodness — should chasten and reprove, and keep it all in silence, 
not even mention them again; then you will be established in power, 
virtue, and holiness, and the wrath of God will be turned away. 

I have one request to make of the President and members of the 
society, that you search yourselves — the tongue is an unruly member — 
hold your tongues about things of no moment — a little tale will set the 
world on fire. At this time, the truth on the guilty should not be told 
openly, strange as this may seem, yet this is policy. We must use pre- 
caution in bringing sinners to justice, lest in exposing these heinous 
sins we draw the indignation of a Gentile world upon us (and, to their 
imagination, justly too). It is necessary to hold an influence in the 
world, and thus spare ourselves an extermination; and also accomplish our 
end in spreading the Gospel, or holiness, in the earth. If we were 
brought to desolation, the disobedient would find no help. There are 
some who are obedient, yet men cannot steady the ark — my arm cannot 
do it — God must steady it. To the iniquitous show yourselves merciful. 

I am advised by some of the heads of the Church to tell the Relief 
Society to be virtuous, but to save the Church from desolation and the 
sword; beware, be still, be prudent, repent,. reform, but do it fii a way 
not to destroy all around you. I do not want to cloak iniquity — all 
things contrary to the will of God, should be cast from us, but don't do 
more hurt than good, with your tongues — be pure in heart. Jesus de- 
signs to save the people out of their sins. Said Jesus, "Ye shall do the 
work, which ye see me do." These are the graud key- words for the 
society to act upon. If I were not in your midst to aid and counsel you, 



A.D 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 21 

the devil would overcome you. I want the innocent to go free — rather 
spare ten iniquitous among you, than condemn one innocent one. "Fret 
not thyself because of evil doers." God will see to it. 

Friday, 27. — Had an attack of a bilious nature, stayed 
at home, took some medicine. 

Saturday j 28. — Convalescent. Walked to the store with 
Emma, transacted some business in the city. At eight 
in the evening, called at the printing office, with the night 
watch, to see the Wasp. 

Violent shocks of earthquakes were experienced in 
Greece about this time. 

The High Council were in session, as they had been from 
day to day through the week, investigating charges against 
various individuals for unvirtuous conduct, committed 
through the teachings and influence of John C. Bennett; 
several were cutoff, and some were forgiven on confession. 

Sunday, 29.— 1 was at home; and about the city en- 
gaged in counselling the brethren, &c, and also on Mon- 
day and Tuesday, the 30th, and 31st. 

Wednesday , June 1. — I attended a political meeting in 
the grove, for the nomination of county officers, for the 
county at large, in which I concurred, with the exception 
of the candidate for the sheriffalty, and spoke in favor of 
the proceedings. 

A general conference was held in the Exchange, Man- 
chester, England, Elder Parley P. Pratt, presiding, at 
which 16 conferences were represented, comprising 7,514 
members, 220 Elders, 421 Priests, and 110 Teachers. 

Thursday, 2. — Eode out with Brother Bowen and my 
clerk, and sold lot 1 in block 143. 

The State of Michigan repudiated its debt for $2,350,- 
000. 

Friday, 3. — In the forenoon I rode out in the city, and 
sold to Brother Harmer lot 1 in block 123, and in the after- 
noon rode to Brother John Benbow's, on horseback, ac- 
companied by Emma and others. 



22 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 18*2 

Saturday, 4. — At the printing office in the morning, and 
heard letters read from Grand Master Jonas, Dr. King and 
Mr. Helme, concerning John C. Bennett's expulsion from 
the Masonic Lodge in Ohio. 

In the afternoon paid E. B. Nourn $505 for land bought 
of Hugh McFall, and settled with the heirs of Edward 
Lawrence at my house, assisted by Newel K. Whitney and 
my clerk. 

Sunday, 5. — I preached this morning to a large con- 
gregation. The subject matter of my discourse was drawn 
Discoureby froni 32nd and 33rd chapters of Ezekiel, 
the prophet, wherein it was shown that old Pharaoh was 
comforted and greatly rejoiced that he was honored as 
a kind of king devil over those uncircumcised nations that 
go down to hell for rejecting the word of the Lord, not- 
withstanding His mighty miracles, and fighting the Saints; 
the whole exhibited as a pattern to this generation, and 
the nations now rolling in splendor over the globe, if they 
do not repent, that they shall go down to the pit also and 
be rejoiced over, and ruled over by old Pharaoh, king- 
devil of mobocrats, miracle-rejecters, Saint- killers, hypo- 
critical priests, and all other fit subjects to fester in their 
own infamy. 

Monday y 6. — 1 rode on the prairie to view some land, 
accompanied by Brother Yearsley and my clerk ; dined at 
Brother Lot's, and returned home; when I approved of 
a series of resolutions passed by a court martial of the 
Nauvoo Legion. 

Tuesday, 7. — Sold David D. Yearsley a quarter sec- 
tion of land. Quite* a snowstorm is reported in many 
parts of the New England and Middle States. 

' 'Wednesday, 8. — I was about home. Sent Dr. Rich- 
ards to Carthage on business. On his return, old Charley, 
while on a gallop, struck his knees and breast instead of 
nis feet, fell in the street, and rolled over in an instant, 
and che doctor narrowly escaped with his life. It was a 



A. D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 23 

trick of the devil to kill my clerk. Similar attacks have 
been made on myself of late, and Satan is seeking our de- 
struction on every hand. 

Thursday, 9. — At home, and about the neighborhood, 
attending to domestic affairs, and the business of the 
Church. 

Minutes of Meeting of the Female Belief Society, at the Grove, Nauvoo, 
June £, 1842, (Reported by Miss E. R, Snow.) 

President Joseph Smith opened the meeting by prayer, and then ad- 
dressed the congregation on the design of the institution. Said it is no 
matter how fast the society increases, if all the members are virtuous; 
that we must be as particular with regard to the character of members 
now, as when the society was first started; that sometimes persons wish 
to crowd themselves into a society of this kind when they do not intend 
to pursue the ways of purity and righteousness, as if the society would 
be a shelter to them in their iniquity. 

He said that henceforth no person shall be admitted, but by present- 
ing regular petitions, signed by two or three members in good standing 
in the society, and whoever comes in must be of good report. 

Objections having been previously made against Mahala Overton, 
they were now removed; after which President Joseph Smith continued 
his address; said he was going to preach mercy. Suppose that Jesus 
Christ and holy angels should object to us on frivolous things, what 
would become of us? We must be merciful to one another, and over- 
look small things. 

Respecting the reception of Sister Overton, President Joseph Smith 
said: It grieves me that there is no fuller fellowship; if one member 
suffer all feel it; by union of feeling we obtain power with God. Christ 
said He came to call sinners to repentance, to save them. Christ was 
condemned by the self-righteous Jews because He took sinners into His 
society; He took them upon the principle that they repented of their 
sins. It is the object of this society to reform persons, not to take those 
that are corrupt and foster them in their wickedness; but if they re- 
pent, we are bound to take them, and by kindness sanctifv and cleanse 
them from all unrighteousness by our influence in watcning over them. 
Nothing will have such influence over people as the fear of being dis- 
fellowshzped by so goodly a society as this. Then take Sister Overton, 
as Jesus received sinners into His bosom. Sister Overton, in the name 
of the Lord, I now make you free. Nothing is so much calculated to 
lead people to forsake sin as to take them by the hand, and watch over 



24 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. TA.D. 1842 

them with tenderness. When persons manifest the least kindness and 
love to me, what power it has over my mind, while the opposite 
course has a tendency to harrow up all the harsh feelings and depress 
the human mind. 

It is one evidence that men are unacquainted with the principles of 
godliness to behold the contraction of affectionate feelings and lack of 
charity in the w.orld. The power and glory of godliness is spread out 
on a broad principle to throw out the mantle of charity. God does not 
look on sin with allowance, but when men have sinned, there must be 
allowance made for them. 

All the religious world is boasting of righteousness: it is the doctrine 
of the devil to retard the human mind, and hinder our progress, by fill- 
ing us with self -righteousness. The nearer we get to our heavenly 
Father, the more we are disposed to look with compassion on perishing 
souls; we feel that we want to take them upon our shoulders, and cast 
their sins behind our backs. My talk is intended for all this society; 
if you would have God have mercy on you, have mercy on one another. 

President Smith then referred them to tne conduct of the Savior, when 
He was taken and crucified, &c. 

He then made a promise in the name of the Lord, saying that that 
soul who has righteousness enough to ask God in the secret place for 
life, every day of their lives, shall live to three score years and ten. 
We must walk uprightly all the day long. How glorious are the 
principles of righteousness! We are full of "selfishness; the devil 
flatters us that we are very righteous, when we are feeding on the faults 
of others. We can only live by worshiping our God; all must do it for 
themselves; none can do it for another. How mild the Savior dealt 
with Peter, saying, "When thou art converted, strengthen thy breth- 
ren." At another time, He said to him, "Lovest thou me"?" and hav- 
ing received Peter's reply, He said, "Feed my sheep." If the sisters 
loved the Lord, let them feed the sheep, and not destroy them. How 
oft have wise men and women sought to dictate Brother Joseph by say- 
ing, "0, if I were Brother Joseph, I would do this and that; 1 ' but if 
they were in Brother Joseph's shoes they would find that men or women 
could not be compelled into the kingdom of God. but must be dealt with 
in long-suffering, and at last we shall save them. The way to keep all 
the Saints together, and keep the work rolling, is to wait with 
all long-suffering, till God shall bring such characters to justice. There 
should be no license for sin, but mercy should go hand in hand with re- 
proof. 

Sisters of the society, shall there be strife among you? I will not 
aave it. You must repent, and get the love of God. Away with self- 
righteousness. The best measure or principle to bring the poor to re- 



AD. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 25 

pentance is to administer to their wants. The Ladies' Relief Society is 
not only to relieve the poor, but to save souls. 

President Smith then said that he would give a lot of land to the 
society by deeding to the treasurer, that the society may build houses 
for the poor. He also said he would give a house, frame not finished, 
and that Brother Cahoon will move it on to the aforesaid lot, and the 
society can pay him by giving orders on the store; that it was a good 
plan to set those to work who are owing widows, and thus make an 
offset, &c. 

Friday, 10. — Went to Brother Hibbard's with my 
clerk, to purchase some land. 

Saturday, 11.- — Presided in city council. Council re- 
solved to publish the city charter, ordinances of the city 
council, and Nauvoo Legion, before the first day of next 
July. Also resolved that the bond given by William 
Marks, binding him to make a deed for the land pur- 
chased of him for a burying ground, for the use of the 
city, be put on record in the office for the registry of deeds 
in the city of Nauvoo. 

Riots and mobs are multiplying in the land. • 

Sunday, 12. — Mostly at home. Called at the printing 
office for some papers. 

Monday, 13. — Attended a general council in the lodge 
room to devise ways and means to furnish the poor with 
labor. Many of the English Saints have conditions of 
gathered to Nauvoo, most of whom are un- f^tstnNau- 
acquainted with any kind of labor, except v0 °- 
spinning, weaving, &c. ; and having no factories in this 
place, they are troubled to know what to do. Those who 
have funds have more generally neglected to gather, and 
left the poor to build up the city and the kingdom of God 
in these last days. 

Tuesday, 14. — Rode to the big mound on the La Harpe 
road, accompanied by Emma, Hiram Kimball, and Dr. 
Richards, and pui chased a three-quarter section of land 
of Kimball, including the mound. 

The Twelve — namely, President Brigham Young, Heber 



26 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

C. Kimball, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, and Willard 
Bichards, Bishop George Miller, and Hiram Clark, of the 
High Priest's quorum, in council at the printing office. 
Voted that Hiram Clark go immediately to 
sent toEng- England, take a letter to gather means of the 
churches to go on his journey and take charge 
of the emigration in England, instead of Amos Fielding ; 
also collect means for building the Temple, purchase 
goods, &c, and that letters be given him to Brother Par- 
ley P. Pratt to this effect. Voted that Brother Fielding 
come immediately to this place with his family after his 
return from England. 

John C. Bennett's defense of the proceedings at Nau- 
voo, frc, may be seen on the 37th, 38th, and 39th pages 
of the Wasp. 

Wednesday , 15. — Visited at different places in the city, 
and my farm on the prairie, accompanied by my clerk 
and Orrin Porter Eockwell, and supped at Hiram Kim- 
ball's. 

Issued an editorial on the Gift of the Holy Ghost, as 
follows : — 

The Gift of the Holy Ghost. 

Various and conflicting are the opinions of men in regard to the gift 
of the Holy Ghost. Some people have been in the habit of calling 
every supernatural manifestation the effects of the Spirit of God, whilst 
there are others that think there is no manifestatiou connected with it 
at all; and that it is nothing but a mere impulse of the mind, or an in- 
ward feeling, impression, or secret testimony or evidence, which men 
possess, and that there is no such a thing as an outward manifes- 
tation. 

It is not to be wondered at that men should be ignorant, in a great 
measure, of the principles of salvation, and more especially of the 
nature, office, power, influence, gifts, and blessings of the gift of the 
Holy Ghost; when we consider that the human family have been en- 
veloped in gross darkness and ignorance for many centuries past, without 
revelation, or any just criterion [by which] to arrive at a knowledge of 
the things of God, which can only be known by the Spirit of God. Hence 
it not infrequently occurs, that when the Elders of this Church preach 
to the inhabitants of the world, that if they obey the Gospel they shall 



A.D. 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHUECH. 27 

receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, that the people expect to see some 
wonderful manifestation, some great display of power, or some extra- 
ordinary miracle performed ; and it is often the case that young mem- 
bers of this Church for want of better information, carry along with them 
their old notions of things, and sometimes fall into egregious errors. 
We have lately had some information concerning a few members that 
are in this dilemma, and for their information make a few remarks upon 
tbe subject. 

We believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost being enjoyed now, as much 
as it was in the Apostles' days; we believe that it [the gift of the Holy 
Ghost] is necessary to make and to organize the Priesthood, that no man 
can be called to fill any office in the ministry without it; we also believe 
in prophecy, in tongues, in visions, and in revelations, in gifts, and in 
healings; and that these things cannot be enjoyed without the gift of 
the Holy Ghost. We believe that the holy men of old spake as they 
were moved by the Holy Ghost, and that holy men in these days speak 
by the same principle; we believe in its being a comforter and a witness 
bearer, that it brings things past to our remembrance, leads us into all 
truth, and shows us of things to come; be believe that "no man can 
know that Jesus is the Christ, but by the Holy Ghost." We believe in 
it [this gift of the Holy Ghost] in all its fullness, and power, and great- 
ness, and glory; but whilst we do this, we believe in it rationally, 
consistently, and scripturally, and not according to the wild vagaries, 
foolish notions and traditions of men. 

The human family are very apt to run to extremes, especially in re- 
ligious matters, and hence people in general, either want some miracul- 
ous display, or they will not believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost at all. 
If an Elder lays his hands upon a person, it is thought by many that the 
person must immediately rise and speak in tongues and prophesy; this 
idea is gathered from the circumstance of Paul laying his hands upon 
certain individuals who had been previonsly (as they stated) baptized 
unto John's baptism; which when he had done, they "spake in tongues 
and prophesied.' ' Phillip also, when he had preached the Gospel to 
the inhabitants of the city of Samaria, sent for Peter and John, who 
when they came laid their hands upon them for the gift of the Holy 
Ghost; for as yet he was fallen upon none of them; and when Simon 
Magus saw that through the laying on of the Apostles' hands the Holy 
Ghost was given, he offered them money that he might possess the 
same power. (Acts viii.) These passages are considered by many as 
affording sufficient evidence for some miraculous, visible manifestation, 
whenever hands are laid on for the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

We believe that the Holy Ghost is imparted by the laying on of hands 
of those in authority, and that the gift of tongues, and also the gift of 



28 HISTOEY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1842 

prophecy are gifts of the Spirit, and are obtained through that medium; 
but then to say that men always prophesied and spoke in tongues when 
they had the imposition of hands, would be to state that which is untrue, 
contrary to the practice of the Apostles, and at variance with holy writ; 
for Paul says, "To one is given the gift of tongues, to another the gift 
of prophecy, and to another the gift of healing;" and again: "Do all 
prophesy? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?" evidently 
showing that all did not possess these several gifts; but that one re- 
ceived one gift, and another received another gift — all did not 
phophesy, all did not speak in tongues, all did not work miracles; but 
all did receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; sometimes they spake in 
tongues and prophesied in the Apostles* days, and sometimes they did 
not. The same is the case with us also in our administrations, while 
more frequently there is no manifestation at all; that is visible to the 
surrounding multitude; this will appear plain when we consult the 
writings of the Apostles, and notice their proceedings in relation to this 
matter. Paul, in 1st Cor. xii, says, "Now concerning spiritual gifts, 
brethren, I would not have you ignorant;" it is evident from this, that 
some of them were ignorant in relation to these matters, or they would 
not need instruction. 

Again, in chapter xiv, he says, "Follow after charity and desire- 
spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy." It is very evident 
from these Scriptures that many of them had not spiritual gifts, for .if 
they had spiritual gifts where was the necessity of Paul telling them 
to follow after them, and it is as evident that they did not all receive 
those gifts by the imposition of the hands; for they as a Church had 
been baptized and confirmed by the laying on of hands — and yet to a 
Church of this kind, under the immediate inspection and superintend- 
ency of the Apostles, it was necessary for Paul to say, "Follow after 
charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy," 
evidently showing that those gifts were in the Church, but not enjoyed 
by all in their outward manifestations. 

But suppose the gifts of the Spirit were immediately, upon the im- 
position of hands, enjoyed by all, in all their fullness and power; the 
skeptic would still be as far from receiving any testimony except upon 
a mere casualty as before, for all the gifts of the Spirit are not visible 
to the natual. vision, or understanding of man; indeed very few of them 
are. We read that "Christ ascended into heaven and gave gifts unto 
men; and He gave some Apostles, and «ome Prophets, and some Evang- 
elists, and some Pastors and Teachers." (Eph. iv). 

The Church is a compact body composed of different members, and 
is strictly analogous to the human system, and Paul, after speaking 
of the different gifts, says, "Now ye are the body of Christ and 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 29 

members in particular; and God hath set some in the Church, first Apos- 
tles, secondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers, after that miracles, then 
gifts of healing 1 , helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all 
Teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all speak with tongues? 
Do all interpret?'* It is evident that they do not; yet are they all 
members of one body. All members of the natural body are not the 
eye, the ear, the head or the hand — yet the eye cannot say to the ear [ 
have no need of thee, nor the head to the foot, I have no need of thee; 
they are all so many component parts in the perfect machine — the one 
body; and if one member suffer, the whole of the members suffer with 
it: and if one member rejoice, all the rest are honored with it.. 

These, then, are all gifts; they come from God; they are of God; 
they are all the gifts of the Holy Ghost; they are what Christ ascended 
into heaven to impart; and yet how few of them could be known by the 
generality of men. Peter and John were Apostles, yet the Jewish court 
scourged them as impostors. Paul was both an Apostle and Prophet, 
yet they stoned him and put him into prison. The people knew noth- 
ing about it, although he had in his possession the gift of the Holy 
Ghost. Our Savior was * 'anointed with the oil of gladness above his 
fellows," yet so far from the people knowing Him, they said He was 
Beelzebub, and crucified Him as an impostor. Who could point out a 
Pastor, a Teacher, or an Evangelist by their appearance, yet had they 
the gift of the Holy Ghost? 

But to come to the other members of the Church, and examine the 
gifts as spoken of by Paul, and we shall find that the world can in gen- 
eral know nothing about them, and that there is but one or two that 
could be immediately known, if they were all poured out immediately 
upon the imposition of hands. In I. Cor. xii., Paul says, * 'There are di- 
versities of gifts yet the same spirit, and there are differences of ad- 
ministrations but the same Lord; and there are diversities of operations, 
but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestations 
of the Spirit is given unto every man to profit withal. For to one is 
given, by the Spirit, the word of wisdom, to another, the word of knowl- 
edge by the same Spirit; to another faith, by the same Spirit; to an- 
other the gifts of healing, by the same Spirit; to another the working 
of miracles; to another prophecy; to another the discerning of spirits; 
to another divers kinds of: tongues; to another the interpretation of 
tongues. But all these worketh that one and the self same spirit, divid- 
ing to each man severally as he will." 

There are several gifts mentioned here, yet which of them all could be 
known by an observer at the imposition of hands? The word of wis- 
dom, and the word of knowledge, are as much gifts as any other, yet if 
a person possessed both of these gifts, or received them by the imposi- 



30 HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

tion of hands, who would know it? Another might receive the gift of 
faith, and they would be as ignorant of it. Or suppose a man had the 
gift of healing or power to work miracles, that would not then be 
known; it would require time and circumstances to call these gifts into 
operation. Suppose a man had the discerning of spirits, who would be 
the wiser for it? Or if he had the interpretation of tongues, unless 
someone spoke in an unknown tongue, he of course would have to be 
silent; there are only two gifts that could be made visible — the gift of 
tongues and the gift of prophecy. These are things that are the most 
talked about, and yet if a person spoke in an unknown tongue, accord- 
ing to Paul's testimony, he would be a barbarian to those present. They 
would say that it was gibberish; and if he prophesied they would call 
it nonsense. The gift of tongues is the smallest gift perhaps of the 
whole, and yet it is one that is the most sought after. 

So that according to the testimony of Scripture and the manifesta- 
tions of the Spirit in ancient days, very little could be known about it 
by the surrounding multitude, except on some extraordinary occasion, 
as on the day of Pentecost. 

The greatest, the best, and the most useful gifts would be known 
nothing about by an observer. It is true that a man might prophesy, 
which is a great gift, and one that Paul told the people — the Church — 
to seek after and to covet, rather than to speak in tongues; but what 
does the world know about prophesying? Paul says that it "serveth 
only to those that believe."' But does not the Scriptures say that they 
spake in tongues and prophesied? Yes; but who is it that writes these 
Scriptures? Not the men of the world or mere casual observers, but 
the Apostles — men who knew one gift from another, and of course were 
capable of writing about it; if we had the testimony of the Scribes and 
Pharisees concerning the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pente- 
cost, they would have told us that it was no gift, but that the people 
were "drunken with new wine," and we shall finally have to come to 
the same conclusion that Paul did — "No man knows the things of God 
but by the Spirit of God;" for with the great revelations of Paul when 
he was caught up into the third heaven and saw things that were not 
lawful to utter, no man was apprised of it until he mentioned it himself 
fourteen years after; and when John had the curtains of heaven with- 
drawn, and by vision looked through the dark vista of future ages, and 
contemplated events that should transpire throughout every subsequent 
period of time, until the final winding up scene — while he gazed upon 
the glories of the eternal world, saw an innumerable company of angels 
and heard the voice of God — it was in the Spirit, on the Lord's day, un- 
noticed and unobserved by the world. 

The manifestations of the gift of the Holy Ghost, the ministering of 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 31 

angels, or the development of the power, majesty or glory of God were 
very seldom manifested publicly, and that generally to the people of 
God, as to the Israelites; but most generally when angels have come, 
or God has revealed Himself, it has been to individuals in private, in 
their chamber; in the wilderness or fields, and that generally without 
noise or tumult. The angel delivered Peter out of prison in the dead of 
night; came to Paul unobserved by the rest of the crew; appeared to 
Mary and Elizabeth without the knowledge of others; spoke to John the 
Baptist whilst the people around were ignorant of it. 

When Elisha saw the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof, it 
was unknown to others. When the Lord appeared to Abraham it was 
at his tent door; when the angels went to Lot, no person knew them but 
himself, which was the case probably with Abraham and his wife; when 
the Lord appeared to Moses, it was in the burning bush, in the taber- 
nacle, or in the mountain top; when Elijah was taken in a chariot of fire, 
it was unobserved by the world; and when he was in a cleft of a rock, 
there was loud thunder, but the Lord was not in the thunder; there was 
an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and then there 
was a still small voice, which was the voice of: the Lord, saying, "What 
doest thou hear, Elijah?" 

The Lord cannot always be known by the thunder of His voice, by 
the display of His glory or by the manifestation of His power; and those 
that are the most anxious to see these things, are the least prepared to 
meet them, and were the Lord to manifest His power as He did to the 
children of Israel, such characters would be the first to say, "Let not 
the Lord speak any more, lest we His people die." 

We would say to the brethren, seek to know God in your clos- 
ets, call upon him in the fields. Follow the directions of the Book of 
Mormon, and pray over, and for your families, your cattle, your flocks, 
your herds, your corn, and all things that you possess; ask the blessing 
of God upon all your labors, and everything that you engage in. Be 
virtuous and pure; be men of integrity and truth; keep the command- 
ments of God; and then you will be able more perfectly to understand 
the difference between right and wrong — between the things of God 
and the things of men; and your path will be like that of the just, 
which shineth brighter and brighter unto the perfect clay." 

Be not so curious about tongues, do not speak in tongues except 
there be an interpreter present; the ultimate design of tongues is to 
speak to foreigners, and if persons are very anxious to display their 
intelligence, let them speak to such in their own tongues. The gifts of 
God are all useful in their place, but when they are applied to that 
which God does not intend, they prove au injury, a snare and a curse 



32 HISTOKY O*' I'M*: CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

instead of a blessing. We may some future time enter more fully into 
this subject, but shall let this suffice for the present. 

Thursday, 16. — The following notice was published by 
the Nauvoo [Masonic] lodge: 

NOTICE. 

To all" whom it may concern, greeting: — Whereas, John Cook 
Bennett, in the organization of the Nauvoo Lodge, under dispensation 
palmed himself upon the fraternity as a- regular mason, in good stand- 
ing; and satisfactory testimony having been produced before said lodge, 
that he, said Bennett, was an expelled mason, we therefore publish to 
all the masonic world the above facts that he, the said Bennett, may 
not impose himself again upon the fraternity of masons. All edi- 
tors who are friendly to the fraternity of free and accepted 
ancient York masons will please insert the above. 
George Miller, 

Master of Nauvoo Lodge under Dispensation. 

The British forces captured the Chinese fortifications on 
the Yang-tse-Kiang river with 364 pieces of artillery. 
Friday, 17.— 

Defense of the Saints in Nauvoo by William Law. 

What have the Mormons done to Illinois? is the question which I 
have frequently asked of those who are busy with the tongue of slander 
in calumniating the Latter-day Saints, but .as yet I have found none 
who are willing to answer me honestly or correctly. Perhaps many 
judge from rumor, not having investigated the matter for themselves. 
I have, therefore, thought it might be well to lay before the public 
some facts in relation to the case, believing that there is a respectable 
portion of the community, who, after having received correct informa- 
tion, will frown with indignation upon the conduct of those who are 
endeavoring to raise a persecution against our people. 

In the first place, we would say, that where a crime is committed 
there is a law broken, for if no law has been violated, theie cannot 
have been a crime committed; if, then, our people have broken the law 
is there not power in those laws to vindicate themselves, or to redress 
the wrongs of those who are injured? We say there is; neither would 
we cast any aspersiou upon the characters of the administrators of the 
laws, as though they were not vigilant in the discharge of their duty; 
we believe, with very few exceptions, they have been vigilant. 

With these facts before us, there is then no difficulty in obtaining 
correct information as to the amount of crime committed by the Mormons 



A.D. 1842 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 33 

throughout the state. You have only to refer to the various dockets 
kept by the administrators of law, from the highest court to the lowest, 
throughout the length and breadth of the land, and there you will find 
recorded the crimes of the Mormons, if it so be that they have com- 
mitted any. 

We say their faults are few compared to the population. Where is 
there a record of murder committed by any of our people? None in the 
State. Where is there a record against any of our people for a peni- 
tentiary crime? — Not in the State. Where is there a record of fine or 
county imprisonment (for any breach of law) against any of the Latter- 
day Saints? I know of none in the State. If, then, they have broken 
no law, they consequently have taken away no man's rights — they have 
infringed upon no man's liberties. 

We have been three years in this State, and have not asked for any 
county or state office. Laws have been administered by those n,ot of 
our persuasion; administered rigorously, even against the appearance 
of crime, and yet there has been no conviction of which I have heard. 
Where is there another community in any state, against none of whom 
there is a record of conviction for crime in any court during the space 
of three years? And yet there are those who cry out ''Treason! 
murder! bigamy! burglary! arson! and everything that is evil, without 
being able to refer to a single case that has ever been proved against 
the Mormons. 

This, then, must be the "head and front of our offending," that by 
industry in both spiritual aud temporal things, we are becoming a 
great and numerous people; we convert our thousands and tens of 
' thousands year A y to the light of truth — to the glorious liberty of the 
Gospel of Christ; we bring thousands from foreign lands, from under 
the yoke of oppression and the iron hand of poverty, and we place them 
in a situation where they can sustain themselves, which is the highest 
act of charity toward the poor. We dry the widow's tear, we fill the 
orphan's hand with bread, and clothe the naked; we tea^h them prin- 
ciples of morality and righteousness, and they rejoice in the God of 
Abraham and in the Holy One of Israel, and are happy. 

Thus it is with the honest in heart: but when the wicked creep in 
amongst us for evil, to trample upon the most holy and virtuous pre- 
cepts, and find our moral and religious laws too strict for them, they 
cry out, "Delusion, false prophets, speculation, oppression, illegal ordi- 
nances, usurpation of power, treason against the government, &c. You 
must have your charters taken away; you have dared to pass an ordi- 
nance against fornicators and adulterers; you have forbidden the vend- 
ing of spirituous liquors within your city; you have passed an ordin- 
ance against vagrants and disorderly persons; with many other high- 



34 HTSTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

handed acts! You even threaten to vote at the next election, and may 
be, (at least we fear) you will send a member to the legislature; none 
of which doings we, the good mobocrats and anti-Mormon politicians 
(and some priests as well) are willing to bear." 

This is the cry of ihe base and the vile, the priest and the speculator, 
but the noble, the high-minded, the patriotic and the virtuous breathe no 
such sentiment; neither will those who feel an interest in the welfare 
of the state, for who does not know that to increase the population ten 
thousand a year with the most industrious people in the world, to pay 
thousands of dollars of taxes, to bring into the state immense sums of 
gold and silver, from all countries; to establish the greatest manufac- 
turing city in America (which Nauvoo will be in a few years,) and to 
create the best produce market in the west, — is for the good and 
prosperity of the community at large, and of the state of Illinois in par- 
ticular. As to the city ordinances we have passed all such as we 
deemed necessary for the peace, welfare and happiness of the inhabi- 
tants, whether Jew or Greek, Mohammedan, Roman Catholic, Latter- 
day Saint or any other; that they all worship God according to their 
own conscience, and enjoy the rights of American freemen. 

William Law. 

Nauvoo, June 17, 1842. 

The above are plain matters of fact, that every one my 
become acquainted with by reference to the county and 
state records. We might add that in regard to moral 
principles, there is no city either in this state, or in the 
ml _ „ , , United States that can compare with the 

The Prophet's , x . 

confirmation city of Nauvoo. You mav live m our city for 

of Win. Law's J . " J 

Defense of a month, and not hear an oath sworn; you 

the Saints. •* i n -. , 

may be here as long and not see one person 
intoxicated. So notorious are we for sobriety, that at 
the time the Washington convention passed through our 
city a meeting was called for them, but they expressed 
themselves at a loss what to say, as there were no drunk- 
ards to speak to. 

Saturday, 18. — The following brief extract is from the 
journal of Elder Wilford Woodruff: » 

Minutes of a Public Meeting in Nauvoo. 

The citizens of Nauvoo, both male and female, assembled near the 
Temple for a general meeting; many thousands were assembled. 



A.O. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 35 

Joseph the Seer arose and spoke his mind in great plainness concern- 
ing the iniquity, hypocrisy, wickedness and corruption of General John 
Cook Bennett. He also prophesied in the name of the Lord, concerning 
the merchants in the city, that if they and the rich did not open their 
hearts and contribute to the poor, they would be cursed by the hand of 
God, and be cut off from the land of the living. 

The main part of the day was taken up upon the business of the 
Agricultural and Manufacturing Society. Arrangements were entered 
into to commence operations immediately, under the charter granted by 
the legislature. 

Also Joseph commanded the Twelve to organize the Church more 
according to the law of God; that is to require of those that come in 
to be settled according to their counsel, and also to appoint a committee 
to wait upon all who arrive, make them welcome and counsel them 
what to do. Brigham Youug, Heber C. Kimball, George A, Smith and 
Hyrum Smith were the committee appointed to wait upon emigrants 
and settle them. 

Tuesday, 21. — I attended a large assembly of the Saints, 
at the stand neai the Temple, and addressed them on the 
subject of agriculture, manufacture, and trade, and was 
followed by the Twelve and others on the same subject. 

Wednesday , 22. — There was a special session of the city 
council held, when was passed " an ordinance repealing 
all ordinances and resolutions relative to the changing of 
the names of streets" in the city of Nauvoo. 

Thursday, 23. — I published the following: 

An Address to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to all 
the Honorable Part of the Community. 

It becomes my duty to lay before the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter-day Saints and the public generally, some important facts rela- 
tive to the conduct and character of Dr. John C. Bennett, who has 
lately been expelled from the aforesaid Church and the honorable part 
of the community may be aware of his proceedings, and be ready to 
treat him, and regard him as he ought to be regarded, viz., as an 
impostor and base adulterer. 

It is a matter of notoriety that the said Dr. John C. Bennett became 
favorable to the doctrines taught by the Elders of the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter-day Saints, and located himself in the city of Nauvoo, 
about the month of August, 1840, and soon after joined the Church. 



36 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. it* 

Soon after it was known tnat be had become a member of said Church, 
a communication was received at Nauvoo from a person of respectable 
character and residing in the vicinity where Bennett had lived. This 
letter cautioned us against him, setting forth that he was a very mean 
man, and had a wife and two or three children in McConnellsvill, Morgan 
county, Ohio; but knowing that it is no uncommon thing for good men to 
be evil spoken against, the above letter was kept quiet, but held in 
reserve. 

He had not been long in Nauvoo before he began to keep company 
with a young lady, one of our citizens; and she, being ignorant of his 
having a wife living, gave way to his addresses, and became confident 
from his behavior towards her, that he intended to marry her; and this 
he gave her to understand he would do. I, seeing the folly of such an 
acquaintance, persuaded him to desist, and on account of his continu- 
ing his course, finally threatened to expose him if he did not desist. 
This, to outward appearance, had the desired effect, and the acquain- 
tance between them was broken off. 

But, like one of the most abominable and depraved beings which 
could possibly exist, he only broke off his publicly wicked actions to 
sink deeper into iniquity and hypocrisy. When he saw that I would 
not submit to any such conduct, he went to some of the females in the 
city who knew nothing of him but as an honorable man, and began to 
teach them that promiscuous intercourse between the sexes was a doc- 
trine believed in by the Latter-day Saints, and that there was no harm 
in it, but this failing, he had recourse to a more influential and desper- 
ately wicked course, and that was to persuade them that myself and 
others of the authorities of the Church, not only sanctioned but prac- 
ticed the same wicked acts, and when asked why I publicly preached 
so much against it, said that it was because of the prejudice of the pub- 
lic, and that it would cause trouble in my own house. He was well 
aware of the consequence of such wilful and base falsehoods, if they 
should come to my knowledge, and consequently endeavored to per- 
suade his dupes to keep it a matter of secrecy, persuading them there 
would be no harm if they did not make it kno^n. This proceeding on 
his part answered the desired end; he accomplished his wicked pur- 
poses; he seduced an innocent female by his lying, and subjected her 
character to public disgrace, should it ever be known. 

But his depraved heart would not suffer him to stop here. Not being 
contented with having disgraced one female, he made an attempt upon 
others; and by the same plausible tale overcame them also, evidently 
not caring whose character was ruined, so that his wicked, lustful 
appetites might be gratified. 

Some time, about the early part of July, 1841, I received a letter 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 37 

from Elders Hyrum Smith and William Law, who were then in Pitts- 
burgh, Pennsylvania. This letter was dated June 15th, and contained 
the particulars of a conversation betwixt them and a respectable gentle- 
man from the neighborhood where Bennett's wife and children resided. 
He stated to them that it was a fact that Bennett had a wife and chil- 
dren living, and that she had left him because of his ill treatment 
toward her. This letter was read to Bennett, which he did not attempt 
to deny, but candidly acknowledged the fact. 

Soon after this information reached our ears, Dr. Bennett made an 
attempt at suicide by taking poison, but he being discovered before it 
took effect, and the proper antidote being administered, he recovered; 
but he very much resisted when an attempt was made to save him. The 
public impression was that he was so much ashamed of his base and 
wicked conduct, that he had recourse to the above deed to escape the 
censures of an indignant community. 

It might have been supposed that these circumstances, transpiring 
in the manner they did, would have produced a thorough reformation 
in his conduct; but, alas! like a being totally destitute of common 
decency, and without any government over his passions, he was soon 
busily engaged in the same kicked career, and continued until a knowl- 
edge of the same reached my ears. I immediately charged him with it, 
and he admitted that it was true; but in order to put a stop to all such 
proceedings for the future, I publicly proclaimed against it, and had 
those females notified to appear before the proper officers, that the 
whole subject might be investigated and thoroughly exposed. 

During the course of investigation, the foregoing facts were 
proved by credible witnesses, and were sworn and subscribed to before 
an alderman of the city, on the 15th ultimo. The documents contain- 
ing the evidence are now in my possession. 

We also ascertained by the above investigation that others had been 
led by his conduct to pursue the same adulterous practice, and in order 
to accomplish their detestible designs made use of the same language 
insinuated by Bennett, with this difference, that they did not hear me 
say anything of the kind, but Bennett was one of the heads of the 
Church, and he had informed them that such was the fact and they 
credited his testimony. 

The public will perceive the aggravating nature of this case, and will 
see the propriety of this exposure. Had he only beeu guilty of adul- 
tery, that was sufficient to stamp disgrace upon him, because he is a 
man of better information, and has been held high in the estimation of 
many. But, when it is considered that his mind was so intent upon his 
cruel and abominable deeds, and his own reputation not being sufficient 
to enable him to do it, he must needs make use of my name in 



38 HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1842 

order to effect his purposes, an enlightened public will not be astonished 
at the course I have pursued. 

In order that it may be distinctly understood that he willfully and 
knowingly lied iu the above insinuations, I will lay before my readers 
an affidavit taken before an alderman of the city, after I had charged 
him with these things: — 

State of Illinois, { 
City of Nauvoo. S 

Personally appeared before me, Daniel H. Wells, an alderman of 
said city of Nauvoo, John C. Bennett, who being duly sworn according 
to law, deposeth and saith, — that he never was taught anything in the 
least contrary to the strictest principles of the Gospel, or of virtue, or 
of the laws of God or man, under auy circumstances, or upon any 
occasion, either directly or indirectly, in word or deed, by Joseph 
Smith, and that he never knew the said Smith to countenance any im- 
proper conduct whatever, either in public or private; and that he never 
did teach me in private that an illegal, illicit intercourse with females 
was, under any circumstances justifiable, and that I never knew him so 
to teach others. 

John C. Bennett. 

Sworn to, and subscribed before me, this 17th day of May, A. D. 
1842. 

Daniel H. Wells, Alderman. 

The following conversation took place in the City Council, and was 
elicited in consequence of its being reported that the doctor had stated 
that I had acted in an indecorous manner, and given countenance to 
vices practiced by the doctor and others: — 

Dr. John C. Bennett, ex-mayor, was then called upon by the mayor to 
state if he knew aught against him [i.e., Joseph Smith], when Mr. Ben- 
net replied: I know what I am about, aud the heads of the Church 
know what they are about, I expect. I have no difficulty with the heads 
of the Church. I publicly avow that any one who has said that I have 
stated that General Joseph Smith has given me authority to hold illicit 
intercourse with women, is a liar in the face of God; those who have 
said it are damned liars; they are infernal liars. He never, either in 
public or private, gave me any such authority or license, and any per- 
son who states it, is a scoundrel and a liar. I have heard it said that I 
would become a second Avard by withdrawing from the Church, and 
that I was at variance with the heads, and would use an influence 
against them, because I resigned the office of mayor; this is false. 1 
have no difficulty with the heads of the Church, and I intend to con- 
tinue with you, and hope the time may come when I may be restored 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 39 

to full confidence and fellowship, and my former standing in the 
Church; and that my conduct may be such as to warrant my restora- 
tion; and should the time ever come that I may have the opportunity to 
test my faith, it will then be known whether I am a traitor or a true 
man. 

Joseph Smith then asked: "Will you please state definitely whether 
you know anything against my character either in public or private?" 

General Bennett answered: "I do not; in all my intercourse with 
General Smith, in public and in private, he has been strictly virtuous." 

Wilson Law, 
Hiram Kimball, 
Brigham Young, 
Willard Richards, 
Heber C. Kimball, 
Wilford Woodruff, 
Geo. A. Smith, 
Newel K. Whitney, 
Orson Spencer, 
John Taylor, 
John P. Greene, 
Gustave Hills, 
George W. Harris, 
James Sloan, City Recorder. 
May 19, 1842. 

After I had done all in my power to persuade him to amend his con- 
duct, and these facts were fully established (not only by testimony, but 
by his own confessions) he having acknowledged that they were true, 
and seeing no prospects of any satisfaction from his future life, the 
hand of fellowship was withdrawn from him as a member of the Church 
by the officers; but ou account of his earnest requesting that we would 
not publish him to the world, we concluded not to do so at that time, 
but would let the matter rest until we saw the effect of what we had 
already done. 

It appears evident that as soon as he perceived that he could no 
longer maintain his standing as a member of the Church, nor his 
respectability as a citizen, he came to the conclusion to leave the place, 
which he has done, and that very abruptly; and had he done so quietly, 
and not attempted to deceive the people around him, his case would 
not have excited the indignation of the citizens so much as his real con- 
duct has done. In order to make his case look plausible, he has 
reported that he had withdrawn from the Church because we were not 
worthy of his society; thus, instead of manifesting a spirit of repent- 



40 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

ance, be has to the last proved himself to be unworthy the confidence 
or regard of any upright person, by lying to deceive the innocent, and 
committing adultery in the most abominable and degraded manner. 

We are credibly informed that he has colleagued with some of our 
former wicked persecutors, the Missourians, and has threatened 
destruction upon us; but we should naturally suppose chat he would be 
so much ashamed of himself at the injury he has already done to those 
who never injured him, but befriended him in every possible manner, that 
he could never dare to lift up his head before an enlightened public 
with the design either to misrepresent or persecute; but be that as it 
may, we neither dread him nor his influence, but this much we believe, 
that unless he is determined to fill up the measure of his iniquity, and 
bring sudden destruction upon himself from the hand of the Almighty, 
he will be silent, and never more attempt to injure those concerning 
whom he has testified upon oath he knows nothing but that which is 
good and virtuous. 

Thus I have laid before the Church of Latter-day Saints, and before 
the public, the character and conduct of a man who has stood high in 
the estimation of many; but from the foregoing facts, it will be seen 
that he is not entitled to any credit, but rather to be stamped with 
indignity and disgrace so far as he may be known. What I have 
stated, I am prepared to prove, having all the documents concerning 
the matter in my possession, but I think that to say further is unneces- 
sary, as the subject is so plain that no one can mistake the true nature 
of the case. 

I remain, yours respectfully, 

Joseph Smith. 

Nauvoo, June 23, 1842. 

I have been engaged in domestic affairs and counseling 
the brethren the last week. 

I addressed the following letter to Richmond, Massa- 
chusetts : 

Ike Prophet 1 s Letter to Jennetta Richards. 

Nauvoo, June 23, 1842. 

Sister Jennetta Richards: — Agreeable to your request in the 
midst of the bustle and business of the day, and the care of all the 
churches both at home and abroad, I now embrace a moment to address a 
few words to you, thinking peradventure it may be a consolation 
to you to know that you, too, are remembered by me, as well as all 
the Saiuts. 

My heart's desire and prayer to God is all the day long for all the 
Saints, and man especial and particular manner for those whom He hath 



A.D. 1842 j ; HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 41 

chosen and anointed to bear the heaviest burthens in the heat of the 
day, aniong which number is your husband received — a man in whom I 
have the most implicit confidence and trust. You say I have got him; 
so I have, in the which I rejoice, for he has done me a great good, and 
taken a great burthen off my shoulders since his arrival in Nauvoo. 
Never did I have a greater intimacy with any man than with him. May 
the blessings of Elijah crown his head for ever and ever. We are about 
to send him in a few days after his dear family; he shall have our 
prayers fervently for his safe arrival in their embraces; and may God 
speed his journey, and return him quickly to our society; and I want 
you, beloved sister, to be a general in this matter, in helping him along, 
which I know you will. He will be able to teach you many things 
which you never have heard; you may have implicit confidence in the 
same. 

I have heard much about you by the Twelve, and in consequence of 
the great friendship that exists between your husband and me, and the 
information they all have given me of your virtue and strong attach- 
ment to the truth of the work of God in the last days, I have formed 
a very strong brotherly friendship and attachment for you in the bonds 
of the Gosoel. Although I never saw you, I shall be exceedingly glad 
to see you face to face, and be able to administer in the name of the 
Lord, some of the words of life to your consolation, and I hope that you 
may be kept steadfast in the faith, even unto the end. 

I want you should give my love and tender regard to Brother Rich- 
ards' family, and those who are friendly enough to me to inquire after 
me in that region of the country, not having but very little time to 
apportion to any one, and having stolen this opportunity, I therefore 
subscribe myself, in haste, your most obedient brother in the fullness 
of the Gospel, 

Joseph Smith. 

P. S. — Brother Richards having been with me for a long time, can 
give you any information which you need, and will tell you all about me. 
I shall be very anxious for his return; he is a great prop to me in my 
labors. 

J. S. 

The Afghan war has cost great Britain $15,000,000 per 
annum since its commencement. 

Friday, 24. — Called St. John's day. I rode in Masonic 
procession to the grove where a large assembly of masons 
and others listened to an address from President Rigdon. 



42 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 184'; 

Dined at the Masonic Hall Hotel, kept by Brother Alex- 
ander Mills. 
Wrote Governor Carlin as follows : 

Ihe Prophet 1 s Letter to Governor Carlin on John C. Bennett Affairs. 

Natjvoo, June 24, 1842. 
Thomas Carlin, Governor of the State of Illinois: 

Dear Sir: — It becomes my duty to la}^ before you some facts rela- 
tive to the conduct of our major-general, John C. Bennett, which have 
been proven beyond the possibility of a dispute, and which he himself 
has admitted to be true in my presence. 

It is evident that his general character is that of an adulterer of the 
worst kind, and although he has a wife and children living, circum- 
stances which have transpired in Nauvoo, have proven to a demonstra- 
tion that he cares not whose character is disgraced, whose honor is 
destroyed, nor who suffers, so that his lustful appetite may be grati- 
fied; and further, he cares not how many or how abominable the 
falsehoods he has to make use of to accomplish his wicked purposes, 
even should it be that he brings disgrace upon a whole community. 

Some time ago it having been reported to me that some of the most 
aggravated cases of adultery had been committed upon some previously 
respectable females in our city, I took proper methods to ascertain the 
truth of the report, and was soon enabled to bring sufficient witnesses 
before proper authority to establish the following facts: 

More than twenty months ago Bennett went to a lady in the city and 
began to teach her that promiscuous intercourse between the sexes was 
lawful and no harm in it, and requested the privilege of gratifying his 
passions; but she refused in the strongest terms, saying that it was 
very wrong to do so, and it would bring a disgrace on the Church. 

Finding this argument ineffectual, he told her that men in higher 
standing in the Church than himself not only sanctioned, but practiced 
the same deed?; and in order to finish the controversy, said and 
affirmed that I both taught and acted in the same manner, but publicly 
proclaimed against in consequence of the prejudice of the people, and 
for fear of trouble in my own house. By this means he accomplished 
his designs; he seduced a respectable female with lying, and subjected 
her to public infamy and disgrace. 

Not contented with what he had already done, he made the attempt 
on others, and by using the same language, seduced them also. 

About the early part of July, 1841, 1 received a letter from Pitts- 
burg, Pennsylvania; in it was container" information setting forth that. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHOKCH. 43 

said Bennett had a wife and two or three children then living. This 
I read to him, and he acknowledged it was true. 

A very short time after this, he attempted to destroy himself by tak- 
ing poison; but being discovered before it had taken sufficient effect, 
and proper antidotes being administered, he recovered. 

The impression made upon the minds of the public by this event, was 
that he was so ashamed of his base conduct, that he took this course 
to escape the censure of a justly indignant community. It might have 
been supposed that after this he would have broken off his adulterous 
proceedings; but to the contrary, the public consternation had scarcely 
ceased, before he was again deeply involved in the same wicked pro- 
ceedings and continued until a knowledge of the fact reached my ears. 
I immediately charged him with the whole circumstance, and ne 
candidly acknowledged the truth of the whole. 

The foregoing facts were established on oath before an alderman of 
the city; the affidavits are now in my possession. 

In order that the truth might be fully established, I asked Benuett 
to testify before an alderman, whether I had given him any cause for 
such aggravating conduct. He testified that I never taught him that 
illicit intercourse with females was under any circumstances justifiable, 
neither did he ever hear me teach anything but the strictest principles 
of righteousness and virtue. This affidavit is also in my possession. I 
have also a similar affidavit taken before the City Council, and signed 
by the members of the Council. 

After these things transpired, and finding that I should resist all such 
wicked conduct, and knowing that he could no longer maintain himself 
as a respectable citizen, he has seen fit to leave Nauvoo, and that very 
abruptly. 

I have been credibly informed that he is colleaguing with some of our 
former cruel persecutors, the Missourians, and that he is threatening 
destruction upon us; and under these circumstance I consider it my 
duty to give you information on the subject, that a knowledge of his 
proceedings may be before you in due season. 

It can be proven by hundreds of witnesses that he is one of the basest 
of liars, and that his whole routine of proceedings, while among us, has 
been of the basest kind. 

He also stated that he had resigned his commission as major-general 
to. the Governor, whether this be true or not, I have no knowledge. I 
wish to be informed on the subject, that we may know how to act in 
regard to the Legion. 

A short time ago, I was told by a friend of mine (not a member of 
the Church) that some of the Missourians were conspiring to come up 
to Nauvoo and kidnap me, and not doubting but that it might be true, 



44 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

I consulted with General Bennett upon the most proper course to be 
pursued. We concluded to write to you on the subject, and I requested 
him to do so. I understand he has written to you, but I know not in 
what manner, and I should be very much pleased if you would write to 
me on receipt of this, giving 1 me the contents of his communication. . 

I have also heard that you have entertained of late very unfavorable 
feelings towards us as a people, and especially so with regard to my- 
self, and that you have said that I ought to be shot, &c. If this be 
true, I should be pleased to know from yourself the reason of such hos- 
tile feelings, for I know of no cause which can possibly exist that might 
produce such feelings in your breast. 

It is rumored, and stroug evidence exists, that Dr. Bennett and 
David and Edward Kilbourn have posted bills in Galena, calling upon 
the people to hold meetings, and have themselves in readiness at a 
moment's warning to be assembled and come here and mob us out of the 
place, and try to kidnap me; we know not as to the truth of this report, 
but we have conversed with some transient persons who had the report 
from a gentleman who lately came from there, and had seen those 
hand bills posted in Galena. 

In case of any mob coming upon us, I wish to be informed by the 
Governor what will be the best course for us to pursue, and how he 
wishes us to act in regard to this matter. 

Joseph Smith. 
Lieutenant-General Nauvoo Legion. 

There was a severe shock of an earthquake at Antigua. 

Saturday, 25. — Transacted business with Brother 
Hunter, and Mr. Babbitt, and sat for a drawing of my 
profile to be placed on a lithograph of the map of the city 
of Nauvoo. 

Messrs. Stephens and Catherwood have succeeded in 
collecting in the interior of America a large 

The Work of & . to 

Stephens and amount of relics of the Nephites, or the an- 
cient inhabitants of America treated of in the 
Book of Mormon, which relics have recently been landed 
in New York. 

■ Sunday, 26. — President Young preached on the law of 
consecration, and union of action in building up the city 
and providing labor and food for the poor. 
I attended meeting and council at my house at six 



A.JD. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 45 

o'clock p. m. ; present Hyrurn Smith, George Miller, 
Newel K. Whitney, William Marks, Brigham 
Young, Heber C. Kimball, and Willard Rich- m°gs D at th^T 
ards, to take into consideration the situation Home. 6 * 9 
of the Pine country, and lumbering business, 
and other subjects of importance to the Church; after 
consultation thereon the brethren united in solemn prayer 
that God would make known His will concerning the Pine 
country, and that He would deliver His anointed, His 
people, from all the evil designs of Governor Boggs, and 
the powers of the state of Missouri, and of Governor Car- 
lin and the authorities of Illinois, and of all Presidents, 
Governors, Judges, Legislators, and all in authority, and 
of John C. Bennett, and all mobs and evil designing per- 
sons, so that His people might continue in peace and 
build up the city of Nauvoo, and that His chosen might 
be blessed and live to man's appointed age, and that their 
households, and the household of faith might continually 
be blest with the fostering care of heaven, and enjoy the 
good things of the earth abundantly. Adjourned to Mon- 
day evening. 

Monday, 27. — Transacted a variety of business. Bor- 
rowed money of Brothers Woolley, Spencer, &c, and 
paid Hiram Kimball for the mound. 

When the council assembled in the evening, Brothers 
Hunter, Ivins, Woolley, Pierce and others being present, 
the adjourned council was postponed till Tuesday even- 
ing, and I proceeded to lecture at length on the import- 
ance of uniting the means of the brethren for the purpose 
of establishing manufactories of all kinds, furnishing 
labor for the poor, &c. Brothers Hunter and Woolley 
offered their goods towards a general fund, and good 
feelings were generally manifested. 

This morning little Frederick G. W. Smith told his 
dream to all the house, that "the Missoiirians had got 
their heads knocked off." 

Tuesday , 28.- Paid Brothers Woolley and Spencer. 



46 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

Brother Hunter's goods were received at the store, and 
Brother Robins consecrated his goods and money to the 
general fund. 

The adjourned council of Sunday evening met in my 
upper room, and were agreed that a reinforcement go im- 
mediately to the Pine country, led by Brother Ezra Chase. 
The council dispersed after uniting in solemn prayer to God 
for a blessing on themselves and families, and the Church 
in general, and for the building up of the Temple and 
Nauvoo House and city; for deliverance from their ene- 
mies, and the spread of the work of righteousness : and 
that Brother Richards (who was expected to go East to- 
morrow for his family) might have a prosperous journey, 
have power over the winds and elements, and all opposi- 
tion and dangers, his life and health be preserved, and be 
speedily returned to this place with his family, that their 
lives and health might be preserved, and that they might 
come up in peace to this place, and that Brother Richards 
might be prospered according to the desire of his heart, 
in all things in relation to his household, and the Church, 
and that the Spirit of God might rest upon him continu- 
ally, so that he may act according to the wisdom of 
heaven. 

Previous to the council, in company with Bishop Miller, 
I visited Elder Rigdon and his family, and had much 
conversation about John C. Bennett, and others, much 
unpleasant feeling was manifested by Elder Rigdon 's 
family, who were confounded and put to silence by the 
truth. 

George Miller's Letter to Governor Reynolds oj Missouri. 

To his Excellency Governor Reynolds, of Missouri. 

Dear Sir: — You will permit me to ask you to peruse this letter and 
the accompanying newspaper, relative to the character aud conduct of 
John Cook Bennett, who associated himself with our religious com- 
munity nearly two years ago, he being a mau of respectable talents and 
moderately good literary attainments. 

In the judicial organization of our city uuder the charter granted by 



A.D.1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. . 47 

the legislature of Illinois, said Bennett was elected mayor; and con- 
tinued to hold said office of mayor until within the last two months or 
less. He having learned that he could no longer maintain a standing 
as an honorable man in our society, he tendered his resignation, which 
was accepted. 

The object of this communication is, therefore, to inform you of the 
true character of said John C. Bennett, that he may not injure the 
innocent by gaining credence with you, or those over whom your 
Excellency is placed to govern. 

We have learned from respectable sources that John Cook Bennett 
has entered into a conspiracy with some of the citizens of your state, to 
bring a mob upon us, and thereby disturb our peaceful vocations of 
life, and destroy and drive us from our homes and firesides. 

Believing that your Excellency cannot be influenced by the popular 
prejudice, almost everywhere entertained against us, on account of our 
peculiar tenets, I am the more free to write to you without reserve, 
knowing that the high-toned and honorable men of the earth will not be 
easily carried away by popular opinion or vulgar prejudice; but will 
always be found on the side of the law-abiding portion of the commun- 
ity, and will suppress, so far as in them lies, every movement that tends 
to abridge the rights, or mar the peace and happiness of any portion of 
the citizens of the common country. 

I have resided in this city nearly three years, and have attached my- 
self to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, soon after their 
location here; and have had a good opportunity of learning the feelings 
of the leading members of the said Church in regard to the citizens of 
Missouri which are of the most friendly nature, fever desiring to live 
in peace and cultivate friendship with all the citizens of your state, as 
also all the states, and all mankind generally; it being a principle of our 
faith to cultivate friendship and live in peace with all mankind; and if 
Dr. John Cook Bennett, or any other person, may conspire with citizens 
of your state to bring upon us mob violence, we confide in you as one 
who will under all circumstances, interpose the strong arm of the law in 
the suppression of conspiracy or mobs, or any other violation of law. 
As citizens of the United States we claim the protection of the several 
states and the United States in all our constitutional rights; and having 
learned something of your character, we, the more confidently, 
expect your protection against all lawless aggressions by any of the 
citizens of your state. 

Whatever may be reported concerning us, we assure your Excellency 
that our feelings are, as I have before stated, of the most friendly 
nature, and should Bennett or any other persou report anything 



48 • HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. | A .D. 1842 

contrary, your Excellency need pay no attention to it; for it is 
not the truth, and is only designed by wicked men to cause the over- 
throw of the innocent. 

Should any report have already reached your ears, I would esteem it 
as a great favor, if you would R ive me information of the same by letter 
mmediately on receipt of this. 

I am, yours respectfully, 

George Miller. 



A.D. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 41) 



CHAPTER III. 

CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE PROPHET AND GOVERNOR 
THOMAS CARLIN — ANENT JOHN C. BENNETT 's CHARACTER 
— PHRENOLOGICAL CHARTS OF THE PROPHET ET AL.— THE 
GOVERNMENT OF GOD. 

Wednesday , 29. — I held a long conversation with Francis 
M. Higbee. Francis found fault with being exposed, but 
I told him I spoke of him in self defense. Francis was, 
or appeared, humble, and promised to reform. 

Heard the recorder read in the Law of the Lord ; paid 
taxes; rode out in the city on business, with Brigham 
Young. 

My clerk, Willard Richards, being about to leave me 
for a season, committed the business of my office to Elder- 
William Clayton, who had been engaged with him for a 
few weeks past. 

Thursday , '30. — In the forenoon, spent some time with 
C. A. Warren, Esq., from Quincy, and others, in the 
private office, and in the afternoon was in the court mar- 
tial, giving testimony concerning John C. Bennett, who 
was cashiered. 

Letter of Governor Thomas Carlin to Joseph Smith — Anent John C. 

Bennett. 

Quincy, June 30, 1842. 

Dear Sir: — I received by the last mail, your letter of the 24th in- 
stant, in which you have thought proper to give me a statement of 
charges against the conduct and character of General John C. Bennett; 
I can say that I regret that any individual should so far disregard his 
obligations to his God, and to his fellow man, as to condescend to the 
commission of the crimes alleged in your letter to have been perpetrated 
by General Bennett. It is, however, in accordance with representations 



50 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. lA.D. 1842 

of his character, made to me more than two years since, and which I 
then felt constrained to believe were true, since which time I have de- 
sired to have as little intercourse with him as possible. No resignation 
of his commission as major- general of the Naiivoo Legion has reached 
me. 

Some weeks since I read a short note from him, stating that you had 
reason to believe that a conspiracy is getting up in the state of Mis- 
souri; for' the purpose of mobbing the Mormons at Nauvoo, and kidnap- 
ping you, and take you to that state, and requested to be informed in 
ease of such mob, whether you would be protected by the authorities of 
this state, etc. To which I replied; that as all men were held amen- 
able to the laws, so in like manner the rights of all would be protected, 
and the dignity of the state maintained, to the letter of the constitution . 
and laws. The above is, in substance, the contents of his note to me, 
and my reply to him, having destroyed his letter, as I considered it of 
no use, should it be retained. 

You state that you have heard that I have of late entertained un- 
favorable feelings towards you (the Mormons) as a people, and espe- 
cially so with regards to yourself, &c, *fcc. If this should be true, you 
would be pleased to know from me the reasons of such hostile feelings. 

In reply, I can in truth say that I do not entertain or cherish hostile 
or revengeful feelings towards any man or set of men on earth; but 
. that I may have used strong expressions in reference to yourself, at 
times when my indignation has been somewhat aroused by repeated 
admonitions of my friends (both before and since the attempt to assassi- 
nate Ex-Governor Boggs) to be upon my guard; that you had prophe- 
sied that Boggs should die a violent death, and that I should die in a 
ditch, all this, however, if true, I looked upon as idle boasting until 
since the assassination of Boggs, and even since theu, in reference to 
myself, I cannot view it in any other light, because whatever your feel- 
ings may have been towards Boggs, the mere discharge of an official 
duty on my part, enjoined upon me by the constitution and laws of this 
state, and of the United States, could not possibly engender feelings of 
such deep malignity. Be assured that this matter gives me no uneasi- 
ness, nor would the subject now have been mentioned, had you not re- 
quested a reply to your inquiries. 

I have seen your denial published in the Wasp, of the prediction, at- 
tributed to you, of the death (or assassination) of Governor Boggs; be 
that true or false, nothing has contributed more towards fixing the belief 
upon the public mind, that you had made such prediction, than the re- 
peated statements of a portion of your followers, that the manner of his 
death had been revealed to you, and their exultation that it needs must 
be fulfilled. 



A.D. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 51 

In reference to your request, to be advised how you should act, m 
case a mob should come upon you, I should feel very much at a loss to 
recommend any course for you to adopt, other than the resort to the first 
law of nature, namely, to defend your own rights; because, were 
I to advise a quiet submission on your part, I could not expect that you 
would fold your arms, and silently look on, whilst those rights were 
violated and outraged, as long as you have the power to protect them. 
I, however, have not the most distant thought that there exists, at pres- 
ent, any real cause for the apprehension of a mob coming upon you, 
otherwise I should feel it my duty to endeavor to arrest it. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Thomas Carlin. 
To General Joseph Smith. 

I received a letter from Horace R. Hotchkiss, of which 
the following is a copy: — 

Letter of Horace R. Hotchkiss to Joseph Smith — On the Prophet taking 
Advantage of the Bankrupt Act. 

Fair Haven, May 27, 1842. 
Rev. Joseph Smith: 

Dear Sir: — Yours, notifying me of your application for the benefit 
of the bankrupt act, is at hand. I regret very much the step you have 
taken, as I am fearful it will have a most disastrous influence upon your 
society, both commercially and religiously; you have, however, prob- 
ably weighed the subject with sufficient care to arrive at a correct de- 
cision. 

You will oblige me by stating, immediately upon the receipt of this 
letter, your precise meaning, in saying, that "all your creditors would 
fare alike." It is, as you will see, important for me to know the course 
taken with my notes, and also the position in which we stand to each 
other. 

You have my bond for certain lands, or rather you have my bond 
that you shall have a deed to certain lands upon the payment of notes 
specified in said bond. I wish to know exactly how this bond stands in 
your inventory. Of course, it cannot stand as a title to the property; 
but I want to know the disposition which is to be made of it. 

Possibly some arrangement might be made between us at once; still 
I do not know how Mr. Tuttle and Mr. Gillet will view the subject: 

Yours, &c, 

Horace K. Hotchkiss. 



52 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

To which I wrote the following answer:- — 

Letter of Joseph Smith to H. R. Hotchkiss — Reply to Above. 

Nauvoo, June 30, 1842. 
H. R. Hotchkiss, Esq.: 

Dear Sir: — Yours of the 27th May has been received, which I shall 
now briefly answer. In regard to my application for the benefit of the 
bankrupt act, there was no other course for me to pursue than the one 
I have already taken; and, as I have said before, all my creditors will 
have to fare alike. Your papers are inventoried along with all the other 
property. 

The influence this step may have upon our society, either commerci- 
ally or religiously, is a matter we cannot stop to consult, as we had no 
alternative left, We have been compelled to pursue this course on ac- 
count of the extreme pressure of the times, which continued to bear 
harder upon ns, until we took the step we have. 

A great pressure of business prevents writing more at the present, 
you will, therefore, excuse a short communication. 

I remain yours respectfully, 

Joseph Smith. 

Friday j July 2. — Elder Willard Richards left Nauvoo 
for New England. 

Saturday,. \2. — Rode out in the city with my clerk, Mr. 
Clayton, to look at some lots ; afterwards rode to Heze- 
kiah Peck's, accompanied by Emma and others. 

In this day's Wasp, I find the following: — 

Mr. Editor: 

Sir: — I take the liberty to inform you that a large number of persons 
in different places have manifested a desire to know the phrenological 
development of Joseph Smith's head. I have examined the Prophet's 
head, and he is perfectly willing to have the chart published. You will 
please publish in your paper such portions of it as I have marked, show- 
ing the development of his much-talked-of brain, and let the public 
judge for themselves whether phrenology proves the reports against 
him true or false. Time will prove all things, and a "word to the wise 
is sufficient." 

Yours respectfully, 

A. Crane. 



A.D. 1842 j HISTORY Of THE CHURCH. 53 

A Phrenological Chart of Joseph Smith the Prophet by A. Crane, M, D., 
Professor of Phrenology. 

Propensities. 

Amativeness — 11, L. Extreme susceptibility; passionately fond of 
the company of the other sex. 

Philoprogenitiveness — 9, L. Strong parental affection, great solici- 
tude for their happiness. 

Inhabitiveness — 5, F. Attached to place of long residence; no desire 
to change residence. 

Adhesiveness — 8, P. Solicitous for the happiness of friends, and 
ardent attachments for the other sex. 

Combativeness — 8, L. Indomitable perseverance, great courage; 
force, ability to overpower. 

Destructiveness — 6, M. Ability to control the passions, and is not 
disposed to extreme measures. 

Secretiveness — 10, L. Great propensity and ability to conceal feel- 
ings, plans, &c. 

Acquisitiveness — 9, L. Strong love of riches, desire to make and 
save money. 

Alimentativeness — 9, L. Strong relish for food; keen and severe 
appetite. 

Vitativeness — 4, M. or S. Indifference to life; views the approach of 
death without fear. 

Feelings. 

Cautiousness — 7, F. Provision against prospective dangers and ills, 
without hesitation or irresolution. 

Approbativeness — 10, L. Ambition for distinction; sense of charac- 
ter; sensibility to reproach, fear of scandal. 

Self-esteem — 10, L. High-mindedness, independence, self-confi- 
dence, dignity, aspiration for greatness. 

Concentrativeness — 7, F. Can dwell on a subject without fatigue, 
and control the imagination. 

Sentiments. 

Benevolence — 10, L. Kiudness, gooduess, tenderness, sympathy. 

Veneration — 6, F. Religion, without great awe or enthusiasm; rea- 
sonable deference to superiority. 

Firmness — 10, L. Stability and decison of charcter and purpose. 

Conscientiousness — 8, L. High regard for duty, integrity, mora 
principle, justice, obligation, truth, &c. 

Hope— 10, L. Cheerfulness, sanguine expectation of success and en- 
joyment. 



54 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1842 

Marvelousness — 10 L. Wonder, credulity, belief in the sapernatural. 

Imitation — 5,M. Inferior imitative powers; failure to copy, desciibe, 
relate stories, Sec. 

Prepossession — 8, L. or F. Attached to certain notions; not disposed 
to change them, &c. 

Ideality — 9, L. Lively imagination; fancy, taste, love of poetry, 
elegance, eloquence, excellence, &c. 

Percepti ves. 

Admonition — 8, F. or M. Desirous to know what others are doing; 
ready to counsel, and give hints of a fault or duty, &c. 

Constructiveness — 7, F. Respectable ingenuity, without uncommon 
skill, tact or facility in making, &c. 

Tune — 5, F. or M. Love of music, without quickness to catch or 
learn tunes by the ear. 

Time — 11, V. L. Distinct impressions as to the time when, how 
long, &c. 

Locality — 11, V. L. or L. Great memory of place and position. 

Eventuality — 11, V. L. Extraordinary recollection of minute cir- 
cumstances. 

Individuality — 10, L. Great desire to see; power of observation. 

Form — 10, F. Cognizance, and distinct recollection of shapes, coun- 
tenances, &c. 

Size — 11, N. L. or F. Ability to judge of proportionate size, &c. 

Weight — 9, V. L.. L. F. Knowledge of gravitation, momentum, &c. 

Color — 9, F. or M. Moderate skill in judging of colors, comparing 
and arranging them. 

Language — 6, F. Freedom of expression, without fluency or ver- 
bosity; no great loquacity. 

Order — 9, L. Love of arrangement, everything in its particular 
place. 

Number — 7. Respectable aptness in arithmetical calculations, with- 
out extraordinary talent. 

Reflectives. 

Mirthfulness — 10, L. Wit, fun, mirth, perception and love of the 
ludicrous. 

Causality — 9, L. Ability to think and reason clearly, and perceive 
the relationfof cause and effect. 

Comparison — 11, V. L. Extraordinary critical acumen; great power 
of analysis. 

There are four temperaments. The lymphatic or phlegmatic, in 
which the secreting glands are the most active portion of the system , 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH 55 

produces both corporeal and mental langour, dullness, and inactivity. 
The sanguine in which the arterial portion of the system is most active, 
gives strong feelings and passions, and more ardor, zeal, and activity, 
than of strength or power. The bilious, in which the muscular portion 
predominates in activity, produces strength, power, and edurance of 
body, with great force and energy of mind and character. The nervous, 
in which the brain and nervous system are most active, gives the 
highest degree of activity, with clearness of perception and of thought, 
but less endurance. Sharp and prominent organs denote activity; 
smooth and broad ones intensity and strength. 

Explanation oj the Chart, 

The written figures opposite the organs and ranging in a scale from 
1 to 12, indicate the various degrees in which the respective organs are 
developed in the head of the individual examined; thus 1, 2 indicate that 
the organ is very small or almost wholly wanting; 3, 4 means small, 
or feeble, and inactive; 5, 6 moderate or active only in a subordinate 
degree; 7, 8, full or fair, and a little above par; 9, 10, large, or quite 
energetic, and having a marked influence upon the character; 11, 12, 
mean very large, or giving a controlling influence, and extreme liability 
to perversion. The size of the brain, combinations of the faculties and 
temperament of the individual, may be indicated in the same manner 
as the degrees of the faculties or orgaas. 

The initials V. L. denote very large, L. large, F. full, M moderate, 
S. small, V. S. very small. 
* 

1 give the foregoing a place in my history for the grati- 
fication of the curious, and not for [any] respect [I enter- 
tain for] phrenology. 

The following communication was sent to the Wasp : 

TO THE CITIZENS OF HANCOCK COUNTY. 

As a people, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are found 
"more sinned against than sinning." In political affairs we are ever 
ready to yield to our fellow citizens of the county equal participation in 
the selection of candidates for office. 

We have been disappointed in our hopes of being met with the same 
disposition on the part of some of the old citizens of the county — they 
indeed seem to manifest a spirit of intolerance and exclusion incompati- 
ble with the liberal doctrines of true republicanism. 

At the late anti-Mormon convention, a complete set of candidates, 



56 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. TA.D. 1842 

pledged to a man to receive no support from, and to yield no quarters 
to, "Mormons," are commended to all the citizens of this county for 
their suffrages! 

As a portion of the said citizens of Hancock, we embrace the oppor- 
tunity to decline this ticket for the want of reciprocity in its terms, and 
honesty and intelligence in the character of some of its candidates. 

If the old citizens of the county are still ^desirous of equal participa- 
tions with us in the choice of candidates, we are ready to co-operate 
with them. If independent erentlemen possessing the requisite quali- 
ties, capacity and integrity, will announce themselves, they will receive 
the united support of our people in the county. 

The time for holding a convention seems to have already gone by — 
there is time enough for the friends of justice and fair play to elect a 
ticket to be announced in the independent manner we have suggested* 
Let the gentlemen who have the courage to oppose the spirit of dicta- 
tion, which governed the an ti- Mormon convention candidates show 
themselves, and we will exercise enough, on the terms proposed in this 
article, to ensure complete success. Joseph Smith. 

Sunday j 3. — This morning I preached at the grove to 
about 8,000 people. The subject matter of my discourse 
was from the Prophet Daniel's saying, that in the last 
days the God of heaven would set up a kingdom, &c. 

In the afternoon I heard Brother Hyrum preach at the 
grove. 

The steamer Edna collapsed her flues at the mouth of 
the Missouri river ; more than sixty persons wero badly 
scalded. A proof among many similar that the waters of 
the West are cursed, as saith the Lord in a revelation.* 

Monday, 4. — The Legion appeared on parade under 
command of Brigadier- General Wilson Law, ranking offi- 
Parade of the cer °^ ^e line. Lieutenant- General Smith 
Legion. reviewed the Legion at 11 a. m., »and con- 

tinued in command through the day, which was some- 
what unpleasant, yet an immense number of spectators 
were present, including the passengers of three steamers 
from the neighboring cities and villages. 

* See Doctrine and Covenants sec. lxi: 14-29. Also see an article in the Improve- 
ment Era, September number, 1903, "The Fulfillment of Prophecy, the Testimony 
of the Floods." 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 7 

At the close of the day General Smith expressed his en- 
tire satisfaction in an animated speech, in which he illus- 
trated the design of the organization of the Legion, viz., 
to yield obedience to the institutions of our country, and 
protect the Saints from mobs, after which leave was given 
for strangers to address the Legion, when General Swan- 
zey, of Iowa, expressed his friendly feelings towards Nau- 
voo, and his gratification at the good discipline of the 
Legion. 

Mrs. Emma Smith and the ladies of other distinguished 
officers accompanied their companions on the parade. A 
few Lamanites were present, and there was but little 
drinking. Two individuals were fined $10.25 for offering 
whisky for sale. 

Tuesday, 5. — Attended court-martial and city council ; 
an ordinance in relation to public shows and exhibitions 
was passed. 

The following was also passed : — 

An Ordinance in Relation to Writs of Habeas Corpus, 

Sec. 1. Be it, and it is hereby ordained by the city council of the 

city of Nauvoo, that no citizen of this city shall be taken out of the city 

by any writs without the privilege of investigation before the municipal 

court, and the benefit of a writ of habeas corpus, as granted in the 17th 

section of the Charter of this city. Be it understood that this ordinance 

is enacted for the protection of the citizens of this city, that they may in 

all cases have the right of trial in this city, and not be subjected to 

illegal process by their enemies. 

Joseph Smith, Mayor. 
Passed July 5, 1842. 

James Sloan, Recorder. 

Wednesday, 6. — Transacted business in the city, and 
rode to La Harpe with Emma. 

Two keel boats, sloop-rigged, and laden with pro- 
visions and apparatus necessary for the occa- Expedition to 
sion, and manned with fifty of the brethren, the pineries - 
started this morning on an expedition to the upper Missis- 
sippi, among the pineries, where they can join those al- 



58 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.l>. 1842 

ready there, and erect mills, saw boards and plank, make 
shingles, hew timber, and return next spring with rafts, 
for the Temple of God, Nauvoo House, &c, to beautify 
the city of Nauvoo, according to the Prophets. 

Thursday, 7. — Weather very cool at Nauvoo, ther- 
mometer at six degrees. 

Saturday, 9. — I rode on the prairie with Brothers Clay- 
ton and Gheen to look at some land. Dined on my farm; 
hoed potatoes, &c, and in the afternoon returned to the 
city and transacted a variety of business. 

I find the following phrenological chart of my clerk, 
Elder Willard Richards, of the quorum of the Twelve, by 
A. Crane, M. D.: — 

Phrenological Chart of Willard Richards. 
Propensities. 

Amitiveness — 8, F. Very partial to the opposite sex; generally re- 
ciprocated by them. 

Philoprogeni.tiveness — 7, F. Interested in the happiness of children; 
fond of their company. 

Inhabitiveness — 7, F. Attached to place of lone: residence; no desire 
to change residence. 

Adhesiveness — 11, V. L. Passionately and devotedly attached to 
lovers[and friends. 

Combativeness — 7, F. Great powers of exertion and sustaining under 
opposition and difficulties. 

Destructiveness — 6, M. Ability to control the passions, and is not 
disposed to extreme measures. 

Secretiveness — 10, L. Great propensity and ability to conceal feel- 
ings, plans, &c. 

Acquisitiveness — 8, F. Frugality and industry, without much of the 
miserly, penurious, or stingy feeling. 

Alimentativeness — 8, F. A good appetite, but not excessive, parti- 
ality for a variety of rich hearty dishes. 

Vitativeness — 7, L. Strong desire to exist; contemplates death as 
the greatest misfortune. 

Feelings. 

Cautiousness — Discretion, carefulness, anxiety, apprehension, &c. 
Approbativeness — 10, L. Ambition for distinction; sense of charac- 
ter, sensibility to reproach, fear of scandal. 



AD. 1842 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 59 

Self-esteem — 10, L. High-mindedness, independence, self-confi- 
dence, dignity; aspiration for greatness. 

Concentrativeness — 7, F. Can dwell on a subject without fatigue, 
and control the imagination. 

Sentiments. 

Benevolence — 9, L. Kindness, goodness, tenderness, sympathy. 

Veneration, 7, F. Religion without great awe or enthusiasm; reason- 
able deference to superiority. 

Firmness— 9, L. Stability and decision of character and purpose. 

Conscientiousness — 8, L. High regard for duty, integrity, moral 
principle, justice, obligation, truth, &c. 

Hope — 7, F. Reasonable hopes, a fine flow of spirits; anticipation 
of what is to be realized. 

Marvelousness — 6, F. Openness to conviction without blind credu- 
lity; tolerably good degree of faith. 

Imitation — 10, F. A disposition and respectable ability to imitate, 
but not to mimic or to act out. 

Prepossession — 8, L. or F. Attached to certain notions;' not disposed 
to change them, &c. 

Ideality —10, L. Lively imagination; fancy, taste, love of poetry: 
elegance, eloquence, excellence, &c. 

Perceptives. 

Admonition — 9, F, or M. Desirous to know what others are doing; 
ready to counsel and give hints of a fault or duty, &c. 

Constructiveness — 8, L. Great mechanical ingenuity, talent and 
skill. 

Tune — 8, F. or M. Love of music, without quickness to catch or 
learn tunes by the ear. 

Time — 8, F. or M. Indistinct notions of the lapse of time, of ages 
dates and events, &c. 

Locality — 11, V. L. or L. Great memory of places and position. 

Eventuality— 9, L. Retentive memory of events and particulars. 

Individuality — 10, L. Great desire to see; power of observation. 

Form — 8, F. Cognizance and distinct recollection of shapes, counte 
nances, &c. 

Size — 11, V. L., L. or F. Ability to judge of proportionate size, &c. 

Weight — 6, M. S. or V. S. Deficient balancing power; failure in 
equilibrium. 

Color — 11, V. L. or L. Great power of recollecting and comparing 
colors. 



60 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

Language — 7, F. Freedom of expression, without fluency or ver- 
bosity; no great loquacity. 

Order — 10, L. Love of arrangement; everything in its particular 
place. 

Number — 9, L. Quickness, facility, and correctness in calculating 
figures. 

Reflectives. 

Mirthfulness — 10, L. Wit, fun, mirth; perception and love of the 
ludicrous. 

Causality — 11, L. Ability to think and reason clearly, and perceive 
the relations of cause and effect. 

Comparison — 10, L. A discrimination; power of illustration, ability 
to perceive and apply analogies, &c. — [See explanation of numbers, etc. 
to my chart]. 

Sunday, 10. — Attended meeting at the stand. Elder 
Woodruff preached. My health was not good. At home 
in the afternoon. 

Monday, 11. — In the morning, transacting business 
with Mr. Hunter. In the afternoon, at the printing office 
reading the papers, and bought a horse of Harmon T. 
Wilson, which I named Joe Duncan. 

Tuesday, 12. — At the court room in consultation about 
Bennett. 

Bishop Miller and Erastus Derby started for Quincy 
and Missouri. 

Attended city council. An ordinance was passed regu- 
lating auctions ; also provision was made for publishing 
the Legion laws, &c, &c. 

Mobs, riots, earthquakes, tumults and distress of na- 
tions, are common. In England the manufacturers are 
reducing the wages of the laborers, and tarn-outs and 
starvation follow. 

The Asiatic cholera has appeared again in India. 

Friday, 15. — It was reported early in the morning that 
Elder Orson Pratt was missing. I caused the Temple 
hands and the principal men of the city to make search 
for him. After which, a meeting was called at the Grove, 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 61 

and I gave the public a general outline of John C. Ben- 
nett's conduct. 

The people met again in the afternoon, and were ad- 
dressed on the same subject by Brother Hyrum and Elder 
Kimball. I then stated that I had heard that Edward and 
D. Kilboum were engaged with John C. Bennet to bring 
a mob on the city, from Galena, and asked Edward Kil- 
bourn, who was present, if it was so? To which Mr. Kil- 
bourn replied at some length, and denied the charge. 

Elder Pratt returned in the evening. 

I find an editorial, in the Times and Seasons, on the 
government of God as follows : — 

1 he Government of God, 

The government of the Almighty has always been very dissimilar to 
the governments of men, whether we refer to His religious government, 
or to the government of nations. The government of God has always 
tendacLto promi)j£_4i£jic^,_unity_, Jiarmony^trength, ancLJiappiness; 
while that of man has been productive of confusion, disorder, weakness, 
and misery. 

The geatest acts of the mighty men have been to depopulate nations 
and to overthrow kingdoms; and whilst they have exalted themselves 
and become glorious, it has been at the expense of the lives of the inno- 
cent, the blood of the oppressed, the moans of the widow, and the tears 
of the orphan. 

Egypt, Babylou, Greece, Persia, Carthage, Rome — each was raised 
to dignity amidst the clash of arms and the din of war; and whilst their 
triumphant leaders led forth their victorious armies to glory and vic- 
tory, their ears were saluted with the groans of the dying and the 
misery and distress of the human family; before them the earth was 
a paradise, and behind them a desolate wilderness; their kingdoms 
were founded in carnage and bloodshed, and sustained by oppression, 
tyranny, and despotism. The designs of God, on the other hand, have 
been to promote the universal good of the universal world: to establish 
peace and good will among men; to promote the principles of eternal 
truth; to bring about a state of things that shall unite man to his fellow 
man; cause the world to *'beat their swords into plowshares, and 
their spears into pruning hooks," make the nations of the earth dwell 
in peace, and to bring about the millennial glory, when "the earth shall 
yield its increase, resume its paradisean glory, and become as the 
garden of the Lord." 



<)*2 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

The great and wise of ancient days have failed in all their attempts 

to promote eternal power, peace and happiness. Their nations have 

j crumbled to pieces; their thrones have been cast down in their turn, and 

their cities, and their mightiest works of art have been annihilated; or 

their dilapidated towers, of time-worn monuments have left us but 

feeble traces of their former magnificence and ancient grandeur. They 

I proclaim as with a voice of thunder, those imperishable truths — that 

I man's strength is weakness, his wisdom is folly, his glory is his shame. 

Monarchial, aristocratical, and republican governments of their vari- 
ous kinds and grades, have, in their turn, been raised to dignity, and 
prostrated in the dust. The plans of the greatest politicians, the wisest 
senators, and most profound statesmen have been exploded; and the 
proceedings of the greatest chieftains, the bravest generals, and the 
wisest kings have fallen to the ground. Nation has succeeded nation, 
and we have inherited nothing bat their folly. History records their 
1-^puerjie plans, their short-lived glory, their feeble intellect and their 
ignoble deeds. 

Have we increased in knowledge or intelligence? Where is there a 
man that can step forth and alter the destiny of nations and promote 
the happiness of the world? Or where is there a kingdom or nation that 
can promote the universal happiness of its own subjects, or even then- 
general well being? Our nation, which possesses greater resources 
than any other, is rent, from center to circumference, with party strife, 
political intrigues, and sectional interest; our counselors are panic 
stricken, our legislators are astonished, and our senators are confounded, 
our merchants are paralyzed, our tradesmen are disheartened, our me- 
chanics out of employ, our farmers distressed, and our poor crying for 
bread, our banks are broken, our credit ruined, and our states over- 
whelmed in debt, yet we are, and have beenin peace. 

What is the matter? Are we alone in this thing? Verily no. With 
all our evils we are better situated than any other nation. Let Egypt, 
Turkey, Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, Germany, England, China, or 
any other nation, speak, and tell the tale of their trouble, their per- 
plexity, and distress, and we should find that their cup was full, and 
that they were preparing to drink the dregs of sorrow. England, that 
boasts of her literature, her science, comrnerce, &c, has her hands 
reeking with the blood of the innocent abroad, and she is saluted with 
the cries of the oppressed at home. Chartism, O'Connelism, and radi- 
calism are gnawing her vitals at home; and Ireland, Scotland, Canada, 
and the east are threatening her destruction abroad. France is rent to 
the core, intrigue, treachery, and treason lurk in the dark, and murder, 
and assassination stalk forth at noonday. Turkey, once the dread of 
European nations, has been shorn of her strength, has dwindled into 



A.D. 1842 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. Gr> 

her dotage, and has been obliged to ask her allies to propose to her 
tributary terms of peace; and Russia and Egypt are each of them 
opening their jaws to devour her. Spain has been the theater of blood- 
shed, of misery and woe for years past. Syria is now convulsed with 
war and bloodshed. The great and powerful empire of China, which 
has, for centuries resisted the attacks of barbarians, has become tribu- 
tary to a foreign foe, her batteries thrown down, many of her cities 
destroyed, and her villages deserted. We might mention the Eastern 
Rajahs, the miseries and oppressions of the Irish; the convulsed state 
of Central America; the situation of Texas and Mexico; the state of 
Greece, Switzerland and Poland; nay, the world itself presents one 
great theater of misery, woe, and "distress of nations with perplexity." 
All, all, speak with a voice of thunder, that man is not able to govern 
himself, to legislate for himself, to protect himself, to promote his own 
good, nor the good of the world. 

It has been the design of Jehovah, from the commencement of the 
world, and is His purpose now, to regulate the affairs of the world in 
His own time, to stand as a head of the universe, and take the reins of 
government in His own hand. When that is done, judgment will be 
administered in righteousness; anarchy and confusion will be destroyed, 
and "nations will learn war no more." It is for want of this great 
governing principle, that all this confusion has existed; "for it is not 
in man that walketh, to direct his steps;" this we have fully shown. 

If there was anything great or good in the world, it came from God. 
The construction of the first vessel was given to Noah, by revelation. 
The design of the ark was given by God, "a pattern of heavenly 
things." The learning of the Egyptians, and their knowledge of as- 
tronomy was no doubt taught them by Abraham and Joseph, as their 
records testify, who received it from the Lord. The art of working in 
brass, silver, gold, and precious stones, was taught by revelation, in the 
wilderness. The architectural designs of the Temple at Jerusalem, to- 
gether with its ornaments and beauty, were given of God. Wisdom to 
govern the house of Israel was given to Solomon, and to the judges of 
Israel ; and if he had always been their king, and they subject to his 
mandate, and obedient to his laws, they would still have been a great 
and mighty people — the rulers of the universe, and the wonder of the 
world. 

If Nebuchadnezzar, or Darius, or Cyrus, or any other king possessed 
knowledge or power, it was from the same source, as the Scriptures 
abundantly testify. If, then, God puts up one, and sets down another 
at His pleasure, and made instruments of kings, unknown to them- 
selves, to fulfill His prophecies, how much more was He able, if man 
would have been subject to His mandate to regulate the affairs of 



64 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

this world, and promote peace and happiness among the human 
family! 

The Lord has at various times commenced this kind 6f government, 
and tendered His services to the human family. He selected Enoch, 
whom He directed, and gave His law unto, and to the people who were 
with him; and when the world in general would not obey the com- 
mands of God, after walking with God, he translated Enoch aud his 
church, and the Priesthood or government of heaven, was taken away. 

Abraham was guided in all his family affairs by tbe Lord; was con- 
versed with by angels, and by the Lord; was told where to go, and 
when to stop; and prospered exceedingly in all that he put his hand 
unto; it was because he and his family obeyed the counsel of the 
Lord. 

When Egypt was under the superintendence of Joseph it prospered, 
because he was taught of God; when they oppressed the Israelites, de- 
struction came upon them. When the children of Israel were chosen 
with Moses at their head, they were to be a peculiar people, among 
whom God should place His name; their motto was: "Tha Lord is our 
lawgiver; the Lord is our Judge; the Lord is our King, and He shall 
reign over us." While in this state they might truly say, * 'Happy is 
that people, whose God is the Lord." Their government was a theoc- 
racy; they had God to make their laws, and men chosen by Him to ad- 
minister them; He was their God, and they were His people. Moses 
received the word of the Lord from God Himself; he was the mouth of 
God to Aaron, and Aaron taught the people, in both civil and ecclesi- 
astical affairs; they were both one, there was no distinction; so will it 
be when the purposes of God shall be accomplished: when "the Lord 
shall be King over the whole earth," and "Jerusalem His throne." 
"The law shall go forth from Zion, and the word of the Lord from 
Jerusalem." 

This is the only thing that can bring about the "restitution of all 
things spoken of by all the holy Prophets since the world was" — "the 
dispensation of the fullness of times, when God shall gather together 
all things in one." Other attempts to promote universal peace and 
happiness in the human family have proved abortive; every effort has 
failed; every plan and design has fallen to the ground; it needs the 
wisdom of God, the intelligence of God, and the power of God to ac- 
complish this. The world has had a fair trial for six thousand years; 
the Lord will try the seventh thousand Himself; "He whose right it is, 
will possess the kingdom, and reign until He has put all things under 
His feet;" iniquity will hide its hoary head, Satan will be bound, aud 
the works of darkness destroyed; righteousness will be put to the line, 
and judgment to the plummet, and "he that fears the Lord will alone 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 65 

be exalted in that day." To bring- about this state of things, there 
must of necessity be great confusion among the nations of the earth; 
* 'distress of nations with perplexity." Am I asked what is the cause 
of the present distress? I would answer, " Shall there be evil in a city 
and the Lord hath not done it?" 

The earth is groaning under corruption, oppression, tyranny and 
bloodshed; and God is coming out of His hiding place, as He said He 
would do, to vex the nations of the earth. Daniel, in his vision, saw 
convulsion upon convulsion; he "beheld till the thrones were cast down, 
and the Ancient of Days did sit ; " and one was brought before him like un- 
to the Son of Man; and all nations, kindred, tongues, and people, did 
serve and obey Him. It is for us to be righteous, that we may be 
wise and understand; for none of the wicked shall understand; but 
the wise shall understand, and they that turn many to righteousness 

shall shine as the stars for ever and ever. > 

"~As a Church and a people it behooves us to be wise, and to seek to / 
know the will of God, and then be willing to do it; for "blessed is he / 
that heareth the word of the Lord, and keepeth it," say the Scriptures, I 
"Watch and pray always," says our Savior, "that ye may be accounted I 
worthy to escape the things that are to come on the earth, and to stand 
before the Son of Man." If Enoch, Abraham, Moses, and the children J 
of Israel, and all God's people were saved by keeping the command- 
ments of God, we, if saved at all, shall be saved upon the same princi- 
ple. As God governed Abraham, Isaac aud Jacob as families, and the 
children of Israel as a nation; so we, as a Church, must be under His 
guidance if we are prospered, preserved and sustained. Our only con- 
fidence can be in God; our only wisdom obtained from Him; and He 
alone must be our protector and-"saregaarch-6^^ttf5ll,V and temporally, 
or we fall. ' l 

We have been chastened by the hand of God heietofore for not obey- 
ing His commands, although we never violated any human law, or 
transgressed any human precept; yet we have treated lightly His com- 
mands, and departed from His ordinances, and the Lord nas chastened 
us sore, and we have felt His arm and kissed the rod; let us be wise 
in time to come and ever remember that "to obey is better than sacri- 
fice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." The Lord has told us to 
build the Temple and the Nauvoo House; and that command is as bind- 
ing upon us as any other; and that man who engages not in these things 
is as much a transgressor as though he broke any other commandment; 
he is not a doer of God's will, not a fulfiller of His laws. 

In regard to the building up of Zion, it has to be done by the counsel 
of Jehovah, by the revelations of heaven; and we should feel to say, 
"if the Lord go not with us, carry us not up hence." We would say to 




66 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. . [A.D. 1842 

the Saints that come here, we have laid the foundation for the gathering 

of God's people to this place, and they expect that when the Saints do 

come, they will be under the counsel that God has appointed. The 

\ Twelve are set apart to counsel the Saints pertaining to this matter; 

V'and we expect that those who come here will send before them their 

Q wise men according to revelation; or if not practicable, be subject to 

\J the counsel that God has given, or they cannot receive an inheritance 

^vivj among the Saints, or be considered as God's people, and they will be 

I y* dealt with as transgressors of the laws of God. We are trying here to 

gird up our loins, and purge from our midst the workers of iniquity; and 

we hope that when our brethren arrive from abroad, they will assist us 

to roll forth this good work, and to accomplish this great design, that 

"Zion may be built up in righteousness; and all nations flock to her 

standard;" that as God's people, under His direction, and obedient to 

His law, we may grow up in righteousness and truth; that when His 

purposes shall be accomplished, we may receive an inheritance among 

those that are sanctified. 

Saturday, 16. — Rode on the prairie with my clerk, to 
show some land to Brother Russell from New York; dined 
with my farmer, Brother CorneMiis-E^JLiott, and hoed 
potatoes 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 67 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE PROPHET CHARGED WITH BEING ACCESSORY TO THE 
ASSAULT ON EX-GOVERNOR BOGGS OF MISSOURI — COR- 
RESPONDENCE WITH GOVERNOR CARL1N — THE CHARACTER 
OF JOHN C. BENNETT — PROPHECY THAT THE SAINTS 
WOULD BE DRIVEN TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS. 

Sunday Morning, July 17, 1842, — Attended meeting at 
the Grove; was sick and tarried at home the remainder 
of the day. 

Monday, 18. — Eode out to Brother Kearns and* the 
farm. 

Tuesday 19. — Eode with Dr. Foster, Henry Kearns 
and others to examine some timber lands, &c. 

Wednesday, 20. — 

Affidavit of Lilburn W. Boggs, Ex- Governor of Missouri. 

State of Missouri, county of Jackson: This day personally appeared 
before me, Samuel Weston, a justice of the peace, within and for the 
county of Jackson, the subscriber, Lilburn W, Boggs, who being duly 
sworn doth depose and say that on the night of the 6th day of May, 
while sitting in his dwelling, in the town of Independence, in the county 
of Jackson, he was shot with intent to kill, and that his life was de- 
spaired of for several days, and that he believes and has good reason 
to believe from evidence and information now in his possession, that 
0. P. Rockwell, a citizen or resident of the state of Illinois, is the per- 
son who shot him on the night aforesaid, and the said deponent hereby 
applies to the Governor of the State of Illinois, to deliver the said 0. 
P. Rockwell to some person authorized to receive him and convey him 
to the county aforesaid, there to be dealt with according to law. 

Lilburn W. Boggs. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 20th. day of July, 1842. 

SAiiuEL Weston, J. P. 
Affidavit of the City Council anent John C. Bennett. 
We, the undersigned, members of the city council, of the city of 



68 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

Nauvoo, testify that John C. Bennett was not under duress at the time 
he testified before the city council, May 19, 1842, concerning Joseph 
Smith's innocence, virtue and pure teaching. His statements that he 
has lately made concerning this matter are false; there was no excite- 
ment at the time, nor was he in anywise threatened, menaced or intimi- 
dated. His appearance at the city council was voluntary; he asked the 
privilege of speaking, which was granted. After speaking for some 
time on the city affairs, Joseph Smith asked him if he knew anything 
bad concerning his public or private character. He then delivered those 
statements contained in the testimony voluntarily, and of his own free 
will, and went of his own accord, as free as any member of the council. 
"We further testify that there is no such thing as a Danite Society in 
the city, nor any combination, other than the Masonic Lodge of which 
we have any knowledge. 

Wilson Law, Geo. A. Smith, 

John Taylor, Geo. W. Harris, 

Wilford Woodruff, Newel K. Whitney, 

Vinson Knight, Brigham Young, 

Heber C. Kimball, Charles C. Rich, 

John P. Greene, Orson Spencer. 

William Marks, 

Subscribed and sworn to by the persons whose names appear to the 
foregoing affidavit, the 20th day of July, A. D. 1842, except Newel K. 
Whitney, who subscribed and affirmed to the foregoing this day [July 
21st] before me. 

Daniel H. Wells, 
Justice of the peace within and for Hancock county, Illinois. 

Friday, 22. — A special session of the city council was 
called at eight o'clock this morning; the Vice-Mayor pre- 
siding, when the following petition was written: 

Petition of the Nauvoo City Council to Governor Carlin* 
To His Excellency, Thomas Carlin, Governor of the State of Illinois: 

We, the undersigned citizens of the State of Illinois, having heard 
that many reports are in circulation prejudicial to the interest, happi- 
ness, peace, well being and safety of the inhabitants of the city of 
Nauvoo and vicinity have thought proper to lay before your Excellency 
the following statement: 

Whereas, the Latter-day Saints having suffered much in the state of 
Missouri, in time past through the hand of oppression, brought upon 
them by the falsehoods and misrepresentations of wicked and designing 



A.D. 184*2] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 69 

men, whose hands are yet dripping 1 with the blood of the innocent, and 
whose fiendish rage has sent many a patriot to his long home, leaving 
in our midst many widows and orphans whose sorrows and tears even 
time cannot wipe away: 

We would represent to your Excellency that we broke no law, vio- 
lated no constitutional rights, nor trampled upon the privileges of any 
other people in Missouri; yet we had to suffer banishment, exile, the 
confiscation of our properties, and have diseases, distress and misery 
entailed upon us and our children, the effects of which we bear about in 
our bodies, and are indelibly engraven on our minds, and we appeal to 
your Excellency at the present time, that you will not suffer an occur- 
rence of such heart-rending scenes to take place under your adminis- 
tration. 

Whilst we have been in this state we have behaved as good, peace- 
able citizens; we have availed ourselves of no privileges but what are 
strictly constitutional, and such as have been guaranteed by the author- 
ity of this state; we have always held ourselves amenable to the laws 
of the land; we have not violated any law, nor taken from any their 
rights. 

Your Excellency must be acquainted with the false statements and 
seditious designs of John Cook Bennett, with other political demago- 
gues, pertaining to us as a people. We presume, sir, that you are 
acquainted with the infamous character of that individual, from certain 
statements made to us by yourself pertaining to him> but lest you 
should not be we forward to you documents pertaining to the affair, 
which will fully show the darkness of his character, and the infamous 
course that he has taken. 

Concerning those statements made by him against Joseph Smith, we 
know that they are false. Joseph Smith has our entire confidence; we 
know that he has violated no law, nor has he in anywise promoted sedi- 
tion or rebellion; nor has he sought the injury of any citizen of this or 
any other place. We are perfectly assured that he is as loyal, patriotic 
and virtuous a man, as there is in the state of Illinois, and we appeal 
to your Excellency, if in three years acquaintance with him you have 
seen anything to the contrary? 

Inasmuch as this is the case, we your petitioners, knowing that 
Joseph Smith could not have justice done him in the state of Missouri — 
that he has suffered enough in that state unjustly already, and that if he 
goes there it is only to be murdered — pray your Excellency not to issue 
a writ for him to be given up to the authorities of Missouri; but if your 
Excellency thinks that he has violated any law, we request that he may 
be tried by the authorities of this state, for he shrinks not from inves- 
tigation. 



70 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

We furthermore pray that our lives and the lives of our wives and chil" 
dren may be precious in your sight and that we may have the privilege of 
following our avocations, of living on our farms, and by our own fire- 
sides iu peace, and that neither said John C. Bennett, nor any other 
person may be able to influence your Excellency, either by intrigue or 
falsehood, to suffer us as a people to be injured by mob violence, but if, 
in the estimation of your Excellency, we have done wrong, we appeal 
to the laws of this state. 

Having heard a report that your Excellency had called upon several 
companies of militia, to prepare themselves and be in readiness in case 
of emergency, we would further ask of your Excellency, that if the 
state or country should be in danger, that the Nauvoo Legion may have 
the privilege of showing their loyalty in the defense thereof. 

We have the fullest confidence in the honor, justice and integrity of 
yo^ir Excellency, and feel confident that we have only to present our 
case before you to insure protection, believing that the cries of so many 
peaceable and patriotic citizens will not be disregarded by your Excel 
lency. 

We therefore ask you as the chief magistrate of this state to grant us 
our requests, and we, as in duty bound, will ever pray. 

Signed by the Vice-Mayor and City Council. 

This forenoon I attended a general meeting of the citizens 
at the stand; Orson Spencer, Esq., presiding. The object 
of the meeting was to correct the public mind relative to 
false reports put in circulation by Bennett and others, and 
General Wilson Law presented the following: 

Resolution of a Nauvoo Mass Meeting, 

Resolved, That having heard that John C. Bennett was circulating 
many base falsehoods respecting a number of the citizens of Nauvoo, 
and especially against our worthy and respected Mayor, Joseph Smith, 
we do hereby manifest to the world, that so far as we are acquainted 
with Joseph Smith, we know him to be a good, moral, virtuous, peace- 
able and patriotic man, and a firm supporter of law, justice and equal 
rights; that he at all times upholds and keeps inviolate the constitution 
of this state and the United States. 

This resolution was adopted unanimously by the nu- 
merous assembly. 

The assembly came together in the afternoon, and 



A.D. 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. 71 

about eight hundred signed the foregoing petition pre- 
sented by the city council to Governor Carlin. 

The "Ladies Relief Society" also drew up a petition 
signed by about one thousand ladies, speaking in the 
highest terms of the virtue, philanthropy and benevolence 
of Joseph Smith, begging that he might not be injured, 
and that they and their families might have the privilege 
of enjoying their peaceable rights. 

A petition was also drawn up by many citizens in and 
near Nauvoo, who were not "Mormons" setting forth the 
same things. (See affidavits of Hyrum Smith and William 
Law Times and Seasons, Vol. Ill, page870, &c. Also certi- 
ficates of Elias Higbeeand Francis M. Higbee, Times and 
Seasons, Vol. Ill, page 874.)* 

Affidavit of Hyrum Smith. 

On the seventeenth day of May, 1842, having been made acquainted 
with some of the conduct of John C. Bennett, which was given in testi- 
mony, under oath before Alderman G. W. I^arris, by several females 
who testified that John C. Bennett endeavored to seduce them, and 
accomplished his designs by saying it was right; that it was one of the 
mysteries of God, which was to be revealed when the people was strong 
enough in faith to bear such mysteries — that it was perfectly right to 
have illicit intercourse with females, providing no one knew it but 
themselves, vehemently trying them from day to day, to yield to his 
passions, bringing witnesses of his own clan to testify that there were 
such revelations and such commandments, and that they were of God; also 
stating that he would be responsible for their sins, if there were any, 
and that he would give them medicine to produce abortions, provided 
they should become pregnant. One of these witnesses, a married woman 
that he attended upon in his professional capacity whilst she was sick, 
stated that he made proposals to her of a similar nature; he told her 
that he wished her husband was dead, and that if he was dead, he would 
marry her and clear out with her; he also begged her permission to give 

r" *The matters of which these affidavits treat are of such importance in the 
Church History, since they establish the villainy of John C. Bennett and prove 
the Prophet to be innocent of those things charged against him by Bennett that it 
is thought proper to give them here in extenso, as also an extract from an editorial 
from the Times and Seasons, explaining the long forbearance with this arch- 
apostate and traitor'^ 

M 



72 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. LA.D. 1842 

him [her husband] medicine to that effect; he did try to give him 
medicine, but he would not take it. On interrogating her what she thought 
of such teaching, she replied she was sick at the time, and had to be 
lifted in and out of her bed like a child. Many other acts as criminal 
were reported to me at the time. On becoming acquainted with these 
facts, I was determined to prosecute him, and bring him to justice. 
Some person knowing my determination, having informed him of it, 
he sent to me William Law and Brigham Young, to request an inter- 
view with me, and to see if there could not be a reconciliation made. I 
told them I thought there could not be, his crimes were so heinous; but 
told them I was willing to see him; he immediately came to see me; 
he begged on me to forgive him this once, and not prosecute him and 
expose him; he said he was guilty, and did acknowledge the crimes that 
were alleged against him; he seemed to be sorry that he had committed 
such acts, and wept much and desired that it might not be made public, 
for it would ruin him forever; he wished me to wait, but I was deter- 
mined to bring him to justice, and declined listening to his entreaties; 
he then wished me to wait until he could have an interview with the 
Masonic fraternity; he also wanted au interview with Brother Joseph; 
he wished to know of me if I would forgive him, and desist from my 
intentions, if he could obtain their forgiveness; and requested the privi- 
lege of an interview immediately. I granted him that privilege as I 
was acting as master pro tern at that time; he also wished an interview 
first with Brother Joseph; at that time Brother Joseph was cross- 
ing the yard from the house to the store, he immediately came to the 
store and met Dr. Bennett on the way; he reached out his hand to 
Brother Joseph and said, Will you forgive me? weeping at the time; 
he said, Brother Joseph, I am guilty, I acknowledge it, and I beg of 
you not to expose me, for it will ruin me; Joseph replied, Doctor! why 
are you using my name to carry on your hellish wickedness? Have I 
ever taught you that fornication and adultery were right, 6r polygamy or 
any such practice? He said, You never did. Did I ever teach you 
auything that was not virtuous — that was iniquitous, either in public or 
private? He said, You never did. Did you ever know anything un- 
virtuous or unrighteous in my conduct or action at any time, either in 
public or private? He said, I did not. Are vou willing to make oath to 
this before an alderman of the city? He said I am willing to do so. 
Joseph said, Doctor, go into my office and write what you can in con- 
science subscribe your name to, and I will be satisfied. I will, he said, 
and went into the office, and I went with him, and he requested pen, 
ink and paper of Mr. Clayton, who was acting clerk in that office, and 
was also secretary pro tern, for the Nauvoo Lodge, U. D. William Clay- 
ton gave him paper, pen and ink, and he stood at the desk and wrote 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 73 

the following* article which was published in the 11th No. of the Wasp; 
sworn to and subscribed before Daniel H. Wells, Alderman, 17th day 
of May, A. D. 1842. He called in Brother Joseph and read it to him, 
and asked him if that would do; he said it would; he then swore to it as 
before mentioned, the article was as follows: 

State of Illinois, City of Nauvoo. 
Personally appeared before me, Daniel H. Wells, an alderman of 
said city of Nauvoo, John C. Bennett, who being duly sworn, accord- 
ing to law, deposeth and saith: that he never was taught anything in 
the least contrary to the strictest principles of the Gospel, or of virtue, 
or of the laws of God, or man, under any occasion, either directly or 
indirectly, in word or deed by Joseph Smith: and that he never knew 
the said Smith to countenance any improper conduct whatever, either 
in public or private; and that he never did teach to me in private that 
an illegal, illicit intercourse with females was, under any circumstances, 
justifiable, and that I never knew him so to teach others. 

John C. Bennett. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 17th day of May, 1842. 

Daniel H. Wells, 

Alderman. 

During all this intercourse I was present with him, and there was no] 
threats used nor harshness, everything was as pacific as could be under 
existing circumstances. I then immediately convened the Masonic 
Lodge, it being about 4 o'clock p. m. He then came into the lodge 
and charges of a similar nature were preferred against him. He 
admitted they were true, in the presence of about sixty in number. He 
arose and begged the privilege of speaking to the brethren; he acknowl- 
edged his wickedness; and begged for the brethren to forgive him still 
longer, and he called God and angels to witness that he never would be 
guilty of the like crimes again — he would lay his hand on the Bible and 
swear that he would not be guilty of such crimes. He seemed to be 
very penitent and wept much; his penitence excited sympathy in the 
minds of the brethren, and they withdrew the charge for the time being 
until he could be heard on other charges which had been preferred 
against him by members of the Pickaway Lodge of Ohio, through the 
communications of the Grand Master, A. Jones. After this we found 
him to be an expelled Mason, in consequence of his rascally conduct, 
from the Pickaway Lodge, in Ohio; the circumstances and documents 
were mentioned in the 11th number of the Wasp, signed by George 
Miller, Master of Nauvoo Lodge, under dispensation, and reads as fol- 
lows: 



74 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. l^. D. 1842 

NOTICE. 

To All Whom it May Concern, Greeting: 

Whereas John Cook Bennett, in the organization of the Nauvoo 
Lodge, under dispensation, palmed himself upon the fraternity as a 
regular Mason in good standing; and satisfactory testimony having 
been produced before said Lodge, that he, said Bennett, was an ex- 
pelled Mason, we therefore publish to all the Masonic world, the above 
facts, that he, the said Bennett may not impose himself upon the 
fraterns of Masons. 

All editors who are friendly to the fraternity of free and accepted 
ancient York Masons will please insert the above. 

George Miller, 
Master of Nauvoo Lodge under dispensation. 

Still after all this we found him guilty of similar crimes again, and it 
was found to our satisfaction that he was conspiring against the peace 
and safety of the citizens of this state — after learning these facts we 
exposed him to the public; he then immediately left the place abruptly; 
threatening to drink the hearts blood of many citizens of this place. 
Previous to this last disclosure, the hand of fellowship was withdrawn 
from him, May 11, 1842, by the First Presidency, six days previous to 
the time he pretended to withdraw from the Church, which you will see 
published in the limes and Seasons, June 15, 1842. I was also present 
at the time when he gave this testimony before the city council, as 
printed in the limes and Seasons, July 1, 1842, on page 841, which 
reads as follows: 

Dr. John C. Bennett, ex-Mayor, was then called upon by the Mayor 
to state if he knew aught against him; when Mr. Bennett replied: *'i 
know what I am about, and the heads of the Church know what they are 
about, I expect. I have no difficulty with the heads of the Church. I 
publicly avow that any one who has said that I have stated that General 
Joseph Smith has given me authority to hold illicit intercourse with 
women, is a liar in the face of God, those who have said it are damned 
liars; they are infernal liars. He never either in public or private gave 
me any such authority or license, and any person who states it is a scoun- 
drel and a liar. I have heard it said that I should become a second 
Avard by withdrawing from the Church, and that I was at variance with 
the heads and should use an influence against them because I resigned 
the office of mayor; this is false. I have no difficulty with the heads of 
the Church, and I intend to continue with you, and hope the time may 
come when I may be restored to full confidence, and fellowship, and my 
former standing in the Church, and that my conduct may be such as to 
warrant my restoration — and should the time ever come that I may 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 75 

have an opportunity to test my faith, it will then be known whether I 
am a traitor or a true man," 

Joseph Smith then asked: "Will you please state definitely whether 
you know anything against my character either in public or private V 

General Bennett answered: "I do not; in all my intercourse with Gen. 
Smith, in public and in private, he has been strictly virtuous." 

ALDERMEN. COUNCILLORS. 

Newel K. Whitney, Willard Richards, 

Hirum Kimball, Wilson Law, 

Orson Spencer, John Taylor, 

Gust. Hills, Brigham Young, 

G. W. Harris, John P. Greene, 

Heber C. Kimball, 

James Sloan, recorder. Wilford Woodruff, 

May 19th, 1842. George A. Smith. 

I know he was not under duress at the time, for his testimony was 
given free and voluntarily, after requesting the privilege of the council 
to speak (which was granted him) on matters pertaining to the city 
ordinances, while speaking, or before he took his seat, he was requested 
by the mayor of the city, Joseph Smith, to state to the council if he 
knew aught against him, and he replied according to the above. 

I also know that he had no private intercourse with Joseph in the 
preparation room on the 17th day, as he stated in his letter as printed 
in the Sangamo Journal, for the lodge was convened on that day, and I 
had the keys of the doors in my possession from 7 o'clock a. m. until 6 
o'clock p. m., and it was when the lodge called off for refreshment dur- 
ing recess, that I had the interview with him, at which time he wrote 
the affidavit and subscribed it in my presence, and I was with him during 
the whole time from his first coming to me, until he signed it and until 
the lodge convened again at 4 o'clock. 

Hyrum Smith. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me, July 23, 1842. 

George W. Harris, 

Alderman of the city of Nauvoo. 

Affidavit oj Wm. Laiv. 

As John C. Bennett has become our open enemy, and is engaged 
in circulating falsehoods of the blackest character, I deem it a duty to 
make the following statement of facts: 

John C. Bennett states in the Sangamo Journal that the withdrawal 
of the hand of fellowship by the First Presidency, and the Twelve was 



76 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

after he had withdrawn from the Church. I presume the notice of our 
withdrawal was not published till after he withdrew, but that does not 
prove his statement true, for I hereby testify that I signed the article 
in question several days before he withdrew. I believe it was on the 
evening of the 11th day of May, some four or five days afterwards I 
had some conversation with John C. Bennett and intimated to him that 
such a thing was concluded upon, which intimation, I presume led him 
to withdraw immediately. I told him we could not bear with his con- 
duct any longer — that there were many witnesses against him, and that 
they stated that he gave Joseph Smith as authority for his illicit inter 
course with females. John C. Bennett declared to me before God that 
Joseph Smith had never taught him such doctrines, and that he never 
told any one that he (Josjeph Smith) had taught any such things, and 
that any one who said so told base lies; nevertheless he said he had done 
wrong, that he would not deny, but he would deny that he had used 
Joseph Smith's name to accomplish his designs on any one; stating 
that he had no need of that, for that he could succeed without telling 
them that Joseph approbated such conduct. 

These statements he made to me of his own free will, in a private 
conversation which we had on the subject; there was no compulsion or 
threats used on my part; we had always been on good terms, and I re- 
gretted exceedingly that he had taken such a course. He plead with 
me to intercede for him, assuring me that he would turn from his iniq- 
uity, and never would be guilty of such crimes again. He said that if 
he were exposed it would break his mother's heart — that she was old, 
and if such things reached her ears it would bring her down with sor- 
row to the grave. I accordingly went to Joseph Smith and plead with 
him to spare Bennett from public exposure, on account of his mother. 
On many occasions I heard him acknowledge his guilt, and beg not to 
be destroyed in the eyes of the public, and that he would never act so 
again, so "help him God." From such promises and oaths I was 
induced to bear with him longer than I should have done. 

On one occasion I heard him state before the city council that Joseph 
Smith had never taught him any unrighteous principles, of any kind, 
and that if any one says that he ever said that Joseph taught such 
tilings they are base liars, or words to that effect. This statement he 
made voluntarily; he came into the council room about an hour after 
the council opened, and made the statement, not under duress, but of 
his own free will, as many witnesses can testify. 

On a former occasion he came to me and told me that a friend of his 
was about to be tried by the High Council, for the crime of adultery, 
and that he feared his name would be brought into question. He en- 
treated me to go to the council and prevent his name from being 



A.D. 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 77 

brought forward, as, said he, "I am not on trial, and I do not want my 
mother to hear of these things, for she is a good woman." 

I would further state that I do know from the amount of evidence 
which stands against John C. Bennett, and from his own acknowledg- 
ments, that he is a most corrupt, base, and vile man; and that he has 
published many base falsehoods since we withdrew the hand of fellow- 
ship from him. 

About the time that John C. Bennett was brought before the Masonic 
Lodge he came to me and desired that I would go in company with 
Brigham Young to Hyrum Smith, and entreat of him to spare him — that 
he wished not to be exposed — that he wanted to live as a private citi- 
zen, and would cease from all his folly, etc. I advised him to go to 
Texas, and when he returned, if he would behave well we would rein- 
state him. He said he had no means to take him to Texas, and still 
insisted on Brigham Young and myself to intercede for him. 

William Law. 

Sworn to, and subscribed before me a justice of the peace, within and 
for the county of Hancock, state of Illinois, July 20th j 1842. 

Daniel H. Wells. 

Certificate of Elias and Francis M. Higbee. 
Mr. Editor: 

Sir, from a perusal of the St. Louis papers, I find from an article 
signed J. C. Bennett, stating that all who are friends to Mr. Joseph 
Smith he considers his enemies — as a matter of course, then, I must be 
one, for I am, and have been for a, long time the personal friend of 
Joseph Smith; and I will here say that I have never yet seen or known 
anythingiagainst him that I should change my mind. It is true many 
reports have been and are put in circulation by his enemies for politi- 
cal or religious effect, that upon investigation are like the dew before 
the morning sun, vanish away, because there is no real substance in 
them. 

Could Dr. Bennett expect any man acquainted with all the circum- 
stances, and matters of fact which were developed both here and from 
abroad, respecting his conduct and character, previous to [his leaving 
this place, for one moment to believe him — I answer, No! he could not. 
And all his affidavits, that came from auy person entitled to credit, (I 
say entitled to credit, because some there are who are not entitled to 
credit; as Dr. Bennett very well knows) are in amount nothing at all, 
when summed up, and render no person worthy of death or bonds. 

Francis M. Higbee's knowledge concerning the murder of a prisoner 
in Missouri, I am authorized to say, by Francis M. Higbee that he 



78 HISTOEY OF THE CHUKCH. I.A.D. 1842 

knows of no such thing— that no prisoner was ever killed in Missouri, 
to the best of his knowledge. And I also bear the same testimony 
that there never was any prisoner killed there, neither were we ever 
charged with any such thing, according to the best of my recollection. 

Elias Higbee. 
July 22, 1842. 

This is to certify that I do not know of the murder of any prisoner in 
Missouri, as above alluded to. * 

Francis M. Higbee. 
July 22, 1842. 

[The following is the excerpt from the limes and Seasons alluded to 
in the foot note at page 71:] 

JOHN C. BENNETT. 

In the state of Missouri we had our Hinckle, our Avard, Marsh, Mc- 
Lellin, and others who were the first to flee in time of dangei — the first 
to tell of things that they never knew, and swear to things that they 
never before had heard of They were more violent in their persecu- 
tions, more relentless and sanguinary in their proceedings, and sought 
with greater fury the destruction and overthrow of the Saints of God 
who had never injured them, but whose virtue made them blush for 
their crimes. All that were there remember that they were the stoutest 
and the loudest in proclaiming against oppression; they protested 
vehemently against mob and misrule, but were the first in robbing, 
spoiling, and plundering their brethren. Such things we have always 
expected; we know that the "net will gather together of every kind, 
good and bad," that "the wheat and tares must grow together until the 
harvest," and that even at the last there will be five foolish as well as 
five wise virgins, Daniel, in referring to the last days says, in speak- 
ing concerning the "Holy Covenant," that many shall have indigna- 
tion against it, and shall obtain information from those that forsake the 
Holy Covenant, "and the robbers of thy people shall seek to exalt them- 
selves, but they shall fall." This we have fully proven — we have seen 
them try to exalt themselves, and we have seen their fall. He goes on 
further to state, that 4k many shall cleve unto them by flatteries." Such 
was Dr. Avard, and John C. Bennett — with the latter we have to do at 
the present time, and in many of the foregoing statements and prophe- 
cies we shall see his character and conduct exemplified. He professed 
the greatest fidelity, and eternal friendship, yet was he an adder in the 
path, and a viper in the bosom. He professed to be virtuous and 
chaste, yet did he pierce the heart of the innocent, introduce misery 
and infamy into families, reveled in voluptuousness and crime, and led 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 79 

the youth that he had influence over to tread in his unhallowed steps; he 
professed to fear God, yet did he desecrate His name, and prostitute 
his authority to the most unhallowed and diabolical purposes; even to 
the seduction of the virtuous, and the defiling of his neighbor's bed. 
He professed indignatioa against Missouri saying, "My hand shall 
avenge the blood of the innocent; " yet now he calls upon Missouri to 
come out against the Saints, and he "will lead them on to glory and to 
victory." 

It may be asked why it was that we would countenance him so long 
after being apprised of his iniquities, and why he was not dealt with 
long ago. To this we would answer, that he has been dealt with from 
time to time; when he would acknowledge his iniquity, ask and pray 
for forgiveness, beg that he might not be exposed, on account of his 
mother, and other reasons, saying, he should be ruined and undone. 
He frequently wept like a child, and begged like a culprit for forgive- 
ness, at the same time promising before God and angels to amend his 
life, if he could be forgiven. He was in this way borne with from time 
to time, until forbearance was no longer a virtue, and then the First 
Presidency, the Twelve, and the Bishops withdrew their fellowship from 
him, as published in the 16th number of this paper. The Church after- 
wards publicly withdrew their fellowship from him, and his character 
was published in the 17th number of this paper: since that time he has 
published that the conduct of the Saints was bad — that Joseph Smith 
and many others were adulterers, murderers, etc., that there was a 
secret band of men that would kill people, etc., called Danites — that he 
was in duress when he gave his affidavit, and testified that Joseph 
Smith was a virtuous man — that we believed in and practiced polyg- 
amy,* that we believed in secret murders, and. aimed to destroy the 
government, etc., etc. As he has made his statements very public, and 
industriously circulated them through the conntry,we shall content our- 
selves with answering his base falsehoods and misrepresentations, with- 
out giving publicity to them, as the public is generally acquainted with 
them already."! 

* A distinction here mist be kept in mind between the "polygamy" charged 
against the Saints by Bennett and plurality of wives allowed under certain restric- 
tions by the revelation on tne Eternity of the Marriage Covenant. It was the 
vicious, promiscuous polygamous associations charged " by Bennett that belief in 
and practice of by the Saints that is here denied, not the plural relations under the 
seal and covenant of the marriage law in the aforesaid revelation. See Bennett's 
"History of the Saints," (1842), pp. 217-260. 

t According to Bennett's own statement concerning himself, he joined the Church 
for the purpose of exposing the alleged treasonable designs of the Mormon people 
against several of the western states. In his book, entitled "The History of the 
Saints," (Leland & Whitney, Boston, 1842), he says: 

"I find that it is almost universally the opiniou of those who have heard of me 



80 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1842 

Affidavit of Daniel H. Wells Anent John C. Bennett. 

State of Illinois, County of Hancock. 
I hereby certify that on the 17th day of May last, John C. Bennett 
subscribed and swore to the affidavit over my signature of that date 
and published in the Wasp, after writing the same in my presence, in 
the office where I was employed in taking depositions of witnesses. 
The door of the room was open and free for all, or any person to pass 
or repass. After signing and being qualified to the affidavit aforesaid, 

in the eastern part of the United States, that I united myself to the Mormons from 
a conviction of the truth of their doctrines, and that I was, at least for some time, 
a convert to their pretended religion. This, however, is a very gross error, I 
never believed in them or their doctrines. This is, and indeed was, from the first, 
well known to my friends and acquaintances in the western country, who were well 
aware of my reasons for connecting myself with the Prophet; which reasons I will 
now proceed to state. My attention had been long turned towards the movements 
and designs of the Mormons, with whom I had become pretty well acquaiLted, years 
before, in the state of Ohio; and after the formation of their establishment at Xau- 
voo, in 1839, the facts and reports respecting them, which I continually heard, led 
me to suspect, and, indeed, believe, that their leaders had formed, and were pre- 
paring to execute, a daring and colossal scheme of rebellion and usurpation 
throughout the Northwestern States of the Union. It was to me evident that tem- 
poral, as well as spiritual, empire was the aim and expectation of the Prophet and 
his cabinet. The documents that will hereafter be introduced, will clearly show 
the existence of a vast and deep-laid scheme, upon their part, for conquering the 
states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri, and erecting upon the ruit of 
their present governments a despotic military and religious empire, the head of 
which, as emperor and pope, was to be Joseph Smith, the Prophet of the Lord, 
and his ministers and viceroys, the apostles, high priests, elders, and bishops, of 
the Mormon Church. The fruition of this hopeful project would, of course, have 
been preceded by plunder, devastation, and bloodshed, and by all the countless 
horrors which invariably accompany civil war. American citizens could not be ex- 
pected to stand quietly by, and suffer their governments to be overthrown, their 
religion subverted, their wives and children converted into instruments for a des- 
pot's lust and ambition, and their property forcibly appropriated to the use and 
furtherance of a base imposture. The Mormons would, of course, meet with resist- 
ance as soon as their intentions became evident; and so great was already their 
power, and so rapidly did their numbers increase, that the most frightful conse- 
quences might naturally be expected to ensue, from an armed collision between 
them and the citizens who still remained faithful to the God ^nd the laws of their 
fathers. These reflections continually occurred to me, as I observed the pro- 
ceedings of the Mormons, and, at length, determined me to make an attempt to 
detect and expose the movers and machinery of the plot. 

The promised documentary proofs of the alleged scheme to overthrow govern- 
ment in the states named, and establish on their ruins a despotic military govern- 
ment, etc., did not appear in the book compiled by Bennett, nor can his statement be 
true that he joined the Church for the purpose of expot-i ag a tecret plot on the 
part of Joseph Smith and his associates against government in the United States. 
The most probable and most charitable view in relation to Bennett's actions and 
character is that expressed by the late President John Taylor in his public dis- 



AD. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 81 

he requested to speak to me at the door. I followed him out; he told 
me some persons had been lying about him, and showed ine a writing 
granting him the privilege to withdraw from the Church, and remarked 
that the matter was perfectly understood between him and the heads of 
the Church; and that he had resigned the mayor's office, and should 
resign the office he held in the Legion; but as there was a court-mar- 
tial to be held in a few days Joseph Smith desired that he would wait 
until that was over. 

I was in the city council on the 19th day of May last. I there heard 
him say what has heeu published concerning the teachings of Joseph 
Smith, and of his own course. I afterwai'ds met him in company with 
Colonel Francis M. Higbee. He then stated that he was going to be 
the candidate, (meaning the candidate for the legislature) and Joseph 
and Hyrum Smith were going in for him. Said: "You know it will be 
better for me not to be bothered with the mayor's office, Legion, 'Mor- 
moD,' or anything else." 

During all this time, if he was under duress or fear, he must have 
a good faculty for concealing it, for he was at liberty to go and come 
when and where he pleased, so far as I am capable of judging. 

I know that I saw him in different parts of the city even after he 
had made these statements, transacting business as usual, and said he 
was going to complete some business pertaining to the mayor's 
office; and I think did attend to work on the streets. 

I was always personally friendly with him, after 1 became acquainted 

cussion with a number of Protestant ministers in France, 1850, who relied on 
Bennett's "disclosures" concerning Joseph Smith and the Mormon people for the 
data of their arguments. Of Bennett, with whom he was well and intimately 
acquainted, the late President John Taylor said: 

"Respecting John C, Bennett: I was well acquainted with him. At one time he 
was a good man, but fell into adultery, and was cut off from the Church for his in- 
iquity; and so bad was his conduct, that he was also expelled from the municipal 
courts, of which he was a member. He then went lecturing through the country, and 
commenced writing pamphlets for the sake of makiug money, charging so much 
for admittance to his lectures, and selling his slanders. His remarks, however, 
were so bad, and his statements so obscene and disgraceful, that respectable peo- 
ple were disgusted." 

Elder Taylor's opponents regarded this as an attack upon Bennett's character, 
to which Elder Taylor answered: •' Mr. Carter * * tells us that 

it is now too late to attack John C. Bennett's motives for joining the Church. Did 
I ever attack Johu C. Bennett's motives for joining the Church? * * * * 
I stated conceruiug John C. Bennett, that at one time he was a good man, but that he 
fell into iniquity and was cut off from the Church for adultery, and then com- 
menced his persecutions. If I had my books here I could have shown an affidavit 
made before the city council about the time he was cut off, stating that he knew 
nothing evil or bad of Joseph Smith, an affidavit that I heard him make himself." 
(Public discussion between Reverends Cleeve, Robiuson, Carter, and Elder John 
Taylor at Boulogne-Sur-Mer, France, 1850.) 

6 



82 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D.W12 

with him. I never heard him say anything derogatory to the character 
of Joseph Smith, until after he had been exposed by said Smith, on the 

public stand in Nauvoo. 

Daniel H. Wells. 
July 22nd, A. D. 1842. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me, a justice of the peace, in and 
tor the city of Nauvoo, in said county, this 22nd day of July, 1842. 

Gu status Hills, 
[L. S.] J. P. and Alderman. 

limes and Seasons Editors Note. — ''Daniel H. Wells, Esq., is an old 
resident in this place, and not a Mormon." 

Sunday, 24. — This morning at home sick. Attended 
meeting at the Grove in the afternoon, and spoke of 
Brother Miller's having returned with the good news that 
Bennett would not be able to accomplish his designs. 

Tuesday, 26. — Sick this morning. Rode to my farm in 
the afternoon. 

Wednesday, 27 — Attended meeting at the Grovs and 
listened to the electioneering candidates, and spoke at 
the close of the meeting. 

Letter of Governor Carlin to Joseph Smithy Anent the Foregoing Resolution 

and Petition. 

Quincy, July 27, 1842. 

Dear Sir: — Your communication of the 25th instant, together with 
the petitions of the citizens of the city of Nauvoo, both male and 
female, were delivered to me last evening by Brevet-Major-General 
Wilson Law; also a report of James Sloan, Esq., Secretary of Nauvoo 
Legion, of the proceedings of a Court Martial of Brevet-Ma.ior-General 
had upon charges preferred against Major- General John C. Bennett; 
upon which trial the court found the defendant guilty, aod sentenced 
him to be cashiered; all of which have been considered. 

In reply to your expressed apprehensions of "the possibility of an 
attack upon the peaceable inhabitants of the city of Nauvoo and vicin- 
ity, through the intrigues and false representations of John C. Bennett 
and others," and your request that I would issue official orders to you to 
have the Nauvoo Legion in readiness to be called out at a moment's 
warning in defense of the peaceable citizens, &c, I must say that I 
cannot conceive of the least probability, or scarcely possibility, of an 
attack of violence upon the citizens of Nauvoo from any quarter what- 
ever, and as utterly impossible that such attack is contemplated by any 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 83 

sufficient number of persons to excite the least apprehension of danger 
or injury, and whilst I should consider it my imperative duty to prompt- 
\y take measures to suppress and repel any invasion, by violence of the 
people's rights, I nevertheless think that it is not in my province to in- 
terpose my official authority gratuitously when no such exigency exists. 
From the late exposure, as made by General Bennett it is not strange 
that the apprehensions of the citizens of Nauvoo are excited, but so far 
as I can learn from the expression of public opinion, the excitement is 
confined to the Mormons themselves, and only extends to the com- 
munity at large as a matter of curiosity and wonder. 

Very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 
To General Joseph Smith. Thomas Carlin. 

Elder W. Woodruff started for St. Louis, to procure 
printing paper for the Times and Seasons. 

Saturday, 30. — I wrote to Thomas Carlin, Governor of 
the state of Illinois as follows : 

Letter of the Prophet to Governor Carlin — Satisfied with the Governor's 

Attitude. 

Nauvoo, July 30, 1842. 

Esteemed Sir: — Your favor of the 27th instant per Brevet Major- 
General Wilson Law is before me. I cannot let this opportunity pass 
without tendering to you my warmest thanks for the friendly treatment 
my lady as well as those with her received at your hands during the 
late visit, and also for the friendly feelings breathed forth in your letter. 
Your Excellency may be assured that they ai*e duly appreciated by me, 
and shall be reciprocated. 

I am perfectly satisfied with regard to the subject under considera- 
tion, and with your remarks. I shall consider myself and our citizens 
secure from harm under the broad canopy of the law under your admin- 
istration. We look to you for protection in the event of any violence 
being used towards us, knowing that our innocence with regard to all 
the accusations in circulation will be duly evidenced before an enlight- 
ened public. 

Any service we can do the state at any time will be cheerfully done, 
for our ambition is to be serviceable to our country. 

With sentiments of respect and esteem, I remain your humble 
servant, 

Joseph Smith. 

My wife's nephew, L. D. Wasson, who had gone out on 



84 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

a preaching mission, wrote us this day from Philadelphia 
— (see Times and Seasons, Vol. Ill, pages 891 and 892.) 
Sunday, 31.— In council with Bishops Miller and Whit- 
ney, Brigham Young, John Taylor, &c, con- 
BishopVinson cerning Bishop Vinson Knight's sickness. 
Brother Knight has been sick about a week, 
and this morning he began to sink very fast until twelve 
o'clock when death put a period to his sufferings. 

The High Priests' Quorum met in council, and in- 
structed their clerk to publish in the Times and Seasons 
that it is the duty of the High Priests to have their names 
enrolled on the records of the quoi urns when they arrive at 
Nauvoo. The members, when they spoke in 

Requirements , ' "' x 

of High turns, were required to state whether they had 

Priests 

any hardness with the brethren, kept the Word 
of Wisdom, had family prayers, &c, 

An earthquake was recently felt in Dublane Cathedral, 
near Comrie Scotland. 

Monday, August 1, 1842. — Almost disgraceful riot is 
reported to have commenced in Philadelphia, between the 
colored and white people, which continued three or four days. 

Wednesday, 3. — In the city transacting a variety of 
business in company with General James Adams, and 
others. Brigadier- General Wilson Law elected Major- 
General of the Nauvoo Legion (by a small majority over 
Lyman Wight) in place of John C. Bennett, cashiered. 

Thursday, 4. — In company with fifteen others learning 
sword exercise with Colonel Brewer, and attending to a 
variety of business. 

Friday, 5. — Engaged in a variety of business, and at 
six in the evening presided in the city council ; Councilor 
Taylor brought forward a bill to regulate proceedings in 
the Municipal Court under habeas corpus— the bill was 
read the first time, and upon motion for a second reading 
it was referred to a select committee, namely Alderman 
Spencer, and Councilors Taylor and William Law, to 
report thereon at the next sitting of council. 



A.I). 1842| HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. SO 

Saturday, 6. — Passed over the river to Montrose, Iowa, 
iu company with General Adams, Colonel 
Brewer, and others, and witnessed the install- th^safnts 
ation of the officers of the Rising Sun Lodge Driven to the 
Ancient York Masons, at Montrose, by Gen- f^ k J Woim " 
eral James Adams, Deputy Grand-Master of 
Illinois. While the Deputy Grand-Master \was engaged 
in giving the requisite instructions to the Master-elect, 1 
had a conversation with a number of brethren in the 
shade of the building on the subject of our pers ecution s in 
Missouri and the constant annoyance which has followed us 
since we were driven from that state, [i prophesied that 
( the Saints would cpnt muej^p^nffeiuinuch affliction. .and . 
/ worilcl. bo. driven~to-the -Rocky Mountain s Amany wquIcT 
Apostatize,, others would be put to death by "our persecut- 
ors or lose theirJ iyeiLJua^consequence of exposure o rdis - 
ease, and some of you will live to go and assistinjXLakiag 
settlements and build cities and see the Saints become a 
mighty people in the midst of the Rocky-Mountains.* 

* It is thought important that the following statement from a biography of Anson 
Call, by Edward Tullidge, should be made part of the history of this prophetic in- 
cident, as doubtless the testimony of Brother Call relates to the same incident as 
that described in the Prophet's text of the History, notwithstanding some confusion 
of dates that exists in the Call testimony. It will be seen that the Prophet 
fixes the date of his prophecy on Saturday, the 6th of August, 1842. In 
Whitney's History of Utah, Vol. IV.— {Biographical section of the history, p. 143), 
the date on which Call heard the prophecy, is given as the 8th of August, 1842. 
While in Tullidge \s biography of Call the date is given as the 14th of July, 1843, 
evidently an error. There is no entry in the Prophet's journal for the 8th of 
August, 1842, and the entries for the 8th of August, 1843, and the 14th of July, 
1843, relate to matters of quite a different character. Tullidge, in relating Anson 
Call's recollection of the incident also says that J. C. Bennett was present on the 
occasion, which must also be an error, as the rupture between Bennett and the 
Church and its authorities occurred and he had left Nauvoo previous to the 6th of 
August, 1842. In the Call statement as published by Tullidge, the name of Mr. 
Adams, the Deputy Grand Master Mason in charge of the ceremonies, is given as 
George, it should be James. 

Statement of Anson Call. 

"On the 14th of July, 1843, with quite a number of his brethren, he crossed the 
Mississippi river to the town of Montrose, to be present at the installment of the 
Masonic Lodge of the "Rising Sun." A block schoolhouse had been prepared with 
shade in front, under which was a barrel of ice water. Judge George [James] Adams 
was the highest masonic authority in the state of Illinois, and had been sent there 



8(3 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

Sunday, 7. -At home through the day. 

Monday, 8 — This forenoon I was arrested by the deputy 
sheriff of Adams county, and two assistants, on a war- 
Arrestofthe rant issued by Governor Carlin, founded on 
Prophet on a a requisition from Governor Revnolds of Mis- 

Reqmsrtion of x 

Missouri. souri, upon the affidavit of ex-Governor 

Boggs, complaining of the said Smith as * 'being an ac- 
cessory before the fact, to an assault with intent to kill 
made by one Orrin P. Rockwell on Lilburn W. Boggs," 
on the night of the sixth of May, A. D. 1842. Brother 
Rockwell was arrested at the same time as principal. 

to organize this lodge. He, Hyrum Smith, and J. C. Bennett, being high Masons, 
went into the house to perform some ceremonies which the others were not en- 
titled to witness. These, including Joseph Smith, remained under the bowery. 
Joseph, as he was tasting the cold water, warned the brethren not to be too free 
with it. With the tumbler still in his hand he prophesied that the Saints would 
yet go to the Rocky Mountains; and, said he, this water tastes much like that of 
the crystal streams that are running from the snow-capped mountains. < We wj^Il 
Jet Mr. Call describe this prophetic scene: "I had before seen him in a vision, and} 
I now saw while he was talking his countenance change_to white ; not the deadly 
white of a bloodless face, but a living brillianTwhite. He seemed absorbed in gaz- 
ing at something at a great distance; and Faid:~" 1i r" am gaz mg^pon j;he.-r^&y$--of 

those mount_ainsJ Ihi&jras_£ollowed4>y-a vivid description of the scenery of these) 

| mm^ainSj^s^I^Uay^sin^ it. Pointing to Shadracn 

^Itcmndy and others, he said: 'There are some men here who shall do a great work 
in that land.' Pointing to me, he said: 'There is Anson, he shall go and shall as- 
sist in building up cities from one end of the country to the other, and you, rather 
extending the idea to all those he had spoken of, shall perform as great a work as 
has been done by man, so that the nations of the earth shall be astonished, and 
many of them will be gathered in that land and assist in building cities and tem- 
ples, and Tsrael shall be made to rejoice.' 

"It is impossible to represent in words this scene which is still vivid in my mind, 
of the grandeur of Joseph's appearance, his beautiful descriptions of this land, 
and his wonderful prophetic Utterances as they emanated from the glorious inspira- 
tions that overshadowed him. There was a force and power in his exclamations of 
which the following is but a faint echo: ^ 'Oh the beauty of those snow-capped) 
/mountains! The cool refreshing streams that are running down through tho^e 
^mountain gorges!' Then gazing in anothei direction, as if there was a change of 
locality: 'Oh the scenes that this people will pass through! The dead that will lay 
between here and there.' Then turning in another direction as if the scene had 
again changed: 'Oh the apostasy that will take place before my brethren reach 
that land!' 'But,' he continued, 'The priesthood shall prevail over its enemies, tri- 
umph over the devil and be established upon the„earth, never more to be thrown j 
I downl'AHe then charged us with great force and power, to be faithful to those 
things that had been and should [be committed to our charge, with the promise of 
all the blessings that the Priesthood could bestow. 'Remember these things and 
treasure them up. Amen.' " (Tullidge's Histories, Vol. II. History of Northern 
Utah, and Southern Idaho. — Biographical Supplement, p. 271 et seq.) 



\ 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 87 

There was no evasion of the officers, though the munici- 
pal court issued a writ of habeas corpus according to the 
constitution of the state, Article 8, and Section 13. This 
writ demanded the bodies of Messrs. Smith and Rockwell 
to be brought before the aforesaid court; but these officers 
refused to do so, and finally without complying, they left 
us in the care of the marshal, without the original writ by 
which we were arrested, and by which only we could be 
retained, and returned to Governor Carlin for further 
instructions, and myself and Rockwell went about our 
business. 

I have yet to learn by what rule of right I was arrested 
to be transported to Missouri for a trial of the kind stated. 
"An accessory to an assault with intent to 

J The Prophet's 

kill," does not come under the provision of Comments on 

His Arrest. 

t he fugitive act, wh en the person charged has 
not been out of Illinois, &c. An accessory before the fact to 
manslaughter is something of an anomaly. The isolated 
affidavit of ex- Governor Boggs is no more than any other 
man's, and the constitution says, "that no person shall 
be liable to be transported out of the state, for an offense 
committed within the same." The whole is another Mis- 
souri farce. In fact, implied power, and constructive 
guilt, as a dernier resort, may answer the purpose of des- 
potic governments, but are beneath the dignity of the 
Sons of Liberty, and would be a blot on our judicial es- 
cutcheon. 

I received a letter from the postoffice, which had been 
broken open, and I was grieved at the meanness of its 
contents. 

The city council passed the following "Ordinance regu- 
lating the mode of proceeding in cases of habeas corpus 
before the municipal court: " 

Ordinance on Habeas Corpus Procedure. 

Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the city council of the city of Nauvoo, that 
in all cases where any person or persons, shall at any time hereafter, 
be arrested or under arrest in this city, under any writ or process, and 



88 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

shall be brought before the municipal court of this city, by virtue of a 
writ of habeas corpus, the court shall in every such case have power 
and authority, and are hereby required to examine into the origin, 
validity and legality of the writ of process, under which such arrest was 
made, and if it shall appear to the court, upon sufficient testimony that 
said writ or process was illegal, or not legally issued, or did not proceed 
from proper authority, then the court shall discharge the prisoner from 
under said arrest; but if it shall appear to the court that said writ or 
process had issued from proper authority, and was a legal process, the 
court shall then proceed and fully hear the merits of the case, upon 
which said arrest was made, upon such evidence as may be produced 
and sworn before said court, and shall have power to adjourn the 
hearing, and also issue process from time to time, in their discretion, 
in order to procure the attendance of witnesses, so that a fair and im- 
partial trial and decision may be obtained in every such case. 

Sec. 2. And be it further ordained that if upon investigation it shall 
be proven before the municipal court, that the writ or process has 
been issued, either through private pique, malicious intent, or religious 
or other persecution, falsehood or misrepresentation, contrary to the 
constitution of this state, or the Constitution of the United States, the 
said writ or process shall be quashed and considered of no force or 
effect, and the prisoner or prisoners shall be released and discharged 
therefrom. 

Sec. 3. And be it also further ordained that in the absence, sick- 
ness, debility, or other circumstances disqualifying or preventing the 
mayor from officiating in his court, as chief justice of the municipal 
court, the aldermen present shall appoint one from amongst them to 
act as chief justice, or president pro tempore. 

Sec. 4. This ordinance to take effect and be in force from and after 
its passage. 

Passed Augusts, 1842. 

Hyrum Smith, 
Vice-Mayor and President Pro Tempore. 
James Sloan, Recorder. 

A disgraceful and bloody riot occurred in Cincinnati 
this evening, in and about the "Sans Souci House," 



A. D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. S9 



CHAPTER V. 

THE PROPHET IN SECLUSION —CORRESPONDENCE WITH WIL- 
SON LAW — COMPANIONSHIP OF THE PROPHET AND HIS 
WIFE, EMMA SMITH — THE PROPHET'S APPRECIATION OF 
HIS FRIENDS. 

Tuesday, August 9. — In company witb Judge Ralston 
and Lawyer Powers, preparing for the return of the sher- 
iff; prepared a writ of habeas corpus for the master in 
chancery. 

Wednesday, 10, — The deputy sheriff returned to Nau- 
yoo, but 1 was absent and he did not see me, nor Brother 
Rockwell. He endeavored to alarm my wife and the 
brethren with his threats, if I was not forthcoming, but 
they understood the law in such cases, and his threats 
proved harmless. 

Thursday, 11. — This forenoon Brother William Law 
entered into conversation with the sheriff on the illegality 
of the whole proceedings in reference to the arrest, when 
the sheriff acknowledged that he believed Joseph was 
innocent, and that Governor Carlin's course which he had 
pursued, was unjustifiable and illegal. 

I spent the day at Oncle John Smith's in Zarahemla, 
and sent word that I wished to see Emma, Brothers 
Hyrum Smith, William Law and others, with , f ,. 

* > 7 Meeting of 

instructions to meet me on the island between the p^p^ 

with Confi- 

Nauvoo and Montrose. After dark, Emma, cientiai 
Hyrum, William Law, Newel K. Whitney, 
George Miller William Clayton, and Dimick Huntington, 
met at the waterside near the brick store, and proceeded in a 
skiff between the islands until they arrived near the lower 



!)0 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

end; and then hailed to shore. After waiting a very* 
little while, the skiff arrived from the opposite shore, and 
in it were myself, and Brother Erastus H. Derby. A 
council was then held in the skiffs, and various state- 
ments set forth in regard to the state of things. It was 
reported that the governor of Iowa had issued a warrant 
for my apprehension, and that of Orrin P. Rockwell, and 
that the sheriff of Lee county was expected down immedi- 
ately; very strong evidence was also manifested that 
Governor Reynolds of Missouri was not acquainted with 
these proceedings; that ex-Governor Boggs had made 
oath before a justice of the peace or a judge, and that 
the judge had made the requisition, and not Governor 
Reynolds, also that the writ issued by Oarlin was illegal 
and unjustifiable. It is absolutely certain that the whole 
business is another glaring instance of the effects of pre- 
judice against me as a religious teacher, and that it pro- 
ceeds from a persecuting spirit, the parties have signified 
their determination to have me taken to Missouri, whether 
by legal or illegal means. It was finally concluded that I 
should be taken up the river in a skiff, and be landed be- 
low Wiggan's farm, so called, and that I should proceed 
from thence to Brother Edward Savers, and there abide 
for a season. 

This being concluded upon, we separated, myself 
and Brother Derby being rowed up the river by Brother 
Dunham, and the remainder crossed over to Nauvoo. 
It was agreed that Brother Albert P. Rock wood should 
proceed up the river on shore to the place where 
the skiff should stop, and there light up two fires as a 
signal for a stopping place. After the boat had proceeded 
some distance above the city, a fire was discovered on 
shore. We concluded that it was the signal and immedi- 
ately rowed towards shore. When near the shore one of 
the company hailed a person on the banks, but received a 
very unsatisfactory answer, whereupon we turned about and 
put to the channel, and upon coming near the middle of the 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 91 

river, discovered two fires a little higher up the stream. We 
immediately steered towards the fires and were happy to 
find Brother Rockwood awaiting our arrival. We then 
proceeded through the timber to Brother Sayers' house, 
where we were very kindly received and made welcome. 

Judge Ralston and Lawyer Powers departed, each for 
home, expressing their perfect willingness to aid us in 
every possible manner. Judge Ralston also promised 
to ascertain the state of affairs in Quincy, and give us the 
earliest information. 

Friday , 12. — This forenoon it appeared still more evi- 
dent that the whole course of proceedings by Governor 
Carlin and others was illegal. After some 
consultation with Brother William Law, state of 
Emma concluded to dispatch a messenger iowa. 
with a letter to Lawyer Powers, of Keokuk, 
to request him to go to Burlington, Iowa Territory, and 
there see the governor of Iowa, and endeavor to ascertain 
whether Governor Reynolds had made any requisition on 
him for myself and Rockwell. William Walker proceeded 
to cross the river on my horse, "Joe Duncan," in sight of 
a number of persons — one chief design in this movement 
was to draw the attention of the sheriffs and public from 
all idea that I was on the Nauvoo side of the river. 

At night William Clayton and John D. Parker, left 
Nauvoo after dark, and came to see me, and found me 
cheerful and in good spirits. 

Saturday, 13. — This forenoon Brother Hyrum received 
a letter from Elder Hollister at Quincy, stat- 
ing that Governor Carlin had said that his Throw the 
proceedings were illegal and he should not ^^f 
pursue the subject any further. The letter 
also stated that Ford (the agent to receive me from the 
hands of the sheriff and carry me to Missouri) had con- 
cluded to take the first boat and start home ; and that he 
was going to fetch a force from Missouri. All this, my 
friends thought, was only a scheme got up for the pur- 



92 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. f A. D. 18*2 

pose of throwing us off our guard, that they might come 
unexpectedly, kidnap, and carry me to Missouri. 

I had sent a request to Emma to come to see me, and 
she concluded to start in the carriage, but while it was 
preparing, it attracted the attention of the 
Emma to sheriff, who kept a close watch of all move- 

ments. To avoid suspicion, Emma walked to 
Sister Uurphy's and waited the arrival of the carriage 
which passed off down the river with William Clayton and 
Lorin Walker, with raised curtains, receiving Emma by 
the way, without any discovery by the sheriff ; when about 
four miles down the river, the carriage turned on the 
prairie and passing around the city, turned into the tim- 
ber opposite Wiggan's farm, when Emma alighted and 
walked to Brother Sayers', and the carriage returned. I 
was in good spirits, although somewhat afflicted in body, 
and was much rejoiced to meet my dear wife once more. 

A report came over the river to the following effect: 

There are several small companies of men in Montrose, Nashville, 
Keoknk, &c, in search of Joseph, they saw his horse go down 
the river yesterday, and were confident he was on that side. 
They swear they will have him. It is said there is a reward of thirteen 
hundred dollars offered for the apprehension and delivery of Joseph 
and Rockwell, and this is supposed to have induced them to make 
search. The sheriff and deputy have uttered heavy threats several 
times; saying that if they could not find Joseph they would lay the city 
in ashes. They say they will tarry in the city a month, but what they 
will find him. 

Great freshet in Virginia, Indian murders in Florida, 
and riots in Canada are reported in this day's Wasp. 

Sunday, 14. — Spent the forenoon chiefly in conversa- 
tion with Emma on various subjects, and in reading my 
history with her— both felt in good spirits and very cheer- 
ful. Wrote the following letter to Wilson Law (who was 
officially reported to have been duly elected to the office 
of major-general of the Nauvoo Legion) as follows: 



A.O 1842] HISTOTtY OF THE CHURCH. 9o 

Letter of the Prophet to Wilson Law — Directing the Latter How to Pro- 
ceed on Certain Contingencies Arising. 

Headquarters of Nauvoo Legion, August 14, 1842. 
Major- General Law: 

Dear General: — I take this opportunity to give you some instruc- 
tions how I wish you to act in case our persecutors should carry their 
pursuits so far as to tread upon our rights as free-born American citi- 
zens. The orders which I am about to give you, are the result of a long 
series of contemplations since I saw ybu. I have come fully to the con- 
clusion both since this last difficult} 7 commenced as well as before, that 
I never would suffer myself to go into the hands of the Missourians 
alive, and to go into the hands of the officers of this state is nothing 
more or less than to go into the hands of the Missourians; for the whole 
farce has been gotten up unlawfully and unconstitutionally, as well on 
the part of the Governor as others, by a mob spirit, for the purpose of 
carrying out mob violence, to carry on mob intolerance in a religious 
persecution. I am determined, therefore, to keep out of their hauds, 
and thwart their designs, if possible, that perhaps they may not urge 
the necessity of force and bloodshed against their own fellow citizens, 
and loyal subjects [of the state], and become ashamed and withdraw 
their pursuits. But if they should not do this, and shall urge the neces- 
sity of force; and if I by any means should be taken, these are there- 
fore to command you forthwith, without delay, regardless of life or 
death, to rescue me out of their hands. And further, to treat any pre- 
tensions to the contrary, unlawful and unconstitutional, and as a mob 
got up for the purpose of a religious persecution to take away the rights 
of men. 

And further that our chartered rights and privileges shall be consid- 
ered by us as holding the supremacy in the premises, and shall be 
maintained. Nothing short of the Supreme Court of this State having 
authority to disannul them; and the Municipal Court having jurisdiction 
in my case. You will see, therefore, that the peace of the city of Nau- 
voo is kept, let who will endeavor to disturb it. You will also see, 
that whenever any mob force, or violence is used on any citizen there- 
of, or that belongeth thereunto, you will see that that force or violence, 
is immediately dispersed and brought to punishment; or meet it, or con- 
test it, at the point of the sword with firm, undaunted and unyielding 
valor; and let them know that the spirit of old Seventy-Six and of 
Washington yet lives, and is contained in the bosoms and blood of the 
children of the fathers. If there are any threats in the city, let 
legal steps be taken against them; and let no man, woman or child be 
intimidated, or suffer it to be done. Nevertheless, as I said in the 
first place, we will take every measure that lays in our power, and 



94 HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. LA. 1>. 1842 

make every sacrifice that God or man could require at our hands to pre- 
serve the peace and safety of the people without collision. And if sac- 
rificing my own liberty for months and years without stooping to the 
disgrace of Missouri persecutions and violence, and Carlin's misrule 
and corruption. I bow to my fate with cheerfulness, and all due defer- 
ence in consideration of the lives, safety and welfare of others. But if 
this policy cannot accomplish the desired object let our charter and 
nmnicipality, free trade, and sailor's rights be our motto, and go-ahead 
David Crocket like, and lay down our lives like men, and defend our- 
selves to the best advantage we can to the very last. You are there- 
fore hereby authorized and commanded by virtue of the authority 
which I hold, and commission granted me by the executive of this state, 
to maintain the very letter and spirit of the above contents of this 
letter to the very best of your ability; to the extent of our lives and our 
fortunes, and to the lives and fortunes of the Legion; as also all those who 
may volunteer their lives and fortunes with ours; for the defense of our 
wives and children, our fathers and our mothers; our homes, our grave 
yards and our tombs; and our dead and their tombstones, and our dear 
bought American liberties, with the blood of our fathers and all that is 
d ear and sacred to men. 

Shall we shrink at the onset? No! Let every man's brow be as the 
face of a lion; let his breast be as unshaken as the mighty oak, and his 
knee confirmed as the sapling of the forest: and by the voice and loud 
roar of the cannon; and the loud peals and thundering of artillery; and 
by the voice of the thunderings of heaven as upon Mount Sinai; and by 
the voice of the heavenly hosts; and by the vobe of the eternal God; 
and by the voice of innocent blood; and by the voice of innocence; and 
by the voice of all that is sacred and dear to man, let us plead the just- 
ice of our cause; trusting in the arm of Jehovah, the Eloheim, 
who sits enthroned in the heavens; that peradventure He may give us 
the victory; and if we bleed, we shall bleed in a good cause, in the 
cause of innocence and truth; and from henceforth will there not be a 
crown of glory for us? And will not those who come after hold our 
names in sacred remembrance? And will our enemies dare to brand 
us with cowardly reproach? 

With these considerations, I subscribe myself, yours most faithfully 
and respectfully, with acknowledgments of your high and honored trusts 
as Major-General of the Nauvoo Legion. 

Joseph Smith, 

Mayor of the City of Nauvoo, and Lieutenant-General of the Nauvoo 
Legion, of Illinois Militia. 

P. S. — I want you to communicate all the information to me of all the 
transactions as they are going on daily, in writing, by the hands of my 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH 95 

aides-de-camp. As I am not willing that anything that goes from my 
hand to you should be made a public matter, I enjoin you to keep all 
things in your own bosom; and I want everything that comes from you 
to come through my aides. The bearer of this will be able to pilot 
them in a way that will not be prejudicial to my safety. 

Joseph Smith. 

I gave the foregoing letter to Emma with a charge to 
deliver it to General Law tomorrow. After considerable 
conversation on various subjects, and partaking of dinner 
Emma, accompanied by Brothers Derby and Clayton 
started for Nauvoo. The morning had been very wet, and 
the roads were very muddy. It was difficult walking — 
they proceeded to the river and entered a skiff, in which 
they proceeded across the river, and then down the side 
of the islands — soon after they got on the 

id.© Depart- 

water, the wind began to blow very hard, and ure of Emma 
it was with much difficulty and apparent dan- 
ger that they could proceed; but they continued on, and 
after considerable toil arrived opposite the city of Nauvoo 
— they went between the islands and crossed over the river 
to Montrose. As soon as they landed the wind abated, 
and was nearly calm. Brother Derby wanted to return up 
the river without the additional toil of crossing to Nauvoo 
— they met with Brother Ivins' skiff just about to go over 
to Nauvoo, they got into that skiff and left Brother Derby 
to return at his own leisure. Before they could get over the 
wind arose again considerably, but they arrived safe home 
about six o'clock in the evening, where they found Mr. 
Powers from Keokuk, who had just returned from Burl- 
ington. While there he ascertained that there was no writ 
issued in Iowa for me. 

The people inquired "if it was not true that Joseph had 
been commissioned by the United States to visit the In- 
dians and negotiate with them for a tract of land," such 
being the report in circulation. Mr. Powers answered 
that he "was not authorized to assert that the report was 



9(j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1*42 

true, but he thought that it was not only possible, but 
probable;" but in this Mr. Powers was mistaken. 

Monday, 15. — This forenoon several reports were in cir- 
culation in the city, that the militia are on their way 
here, and the same is said to have been stated by the 
stage driver, but it is supposed that it is only a scheme 
to alarm the citizens. Emma presented the foregoing 
letter to Major-General Law, to which he responded as 
follows : 

Letter oj Wilson Lmo to the Prophet, Expressing Willingness to Carry 
out the Latter's Instructions. 

Nauvoo City, Illinois, August 15, Afternoon. 1842. 
Lieutenant- General Joseph Smith: 

Dear Friend. — I this morning received a line from you, by the 
young man (Walker) respecting the guns, &c. One of them is in the 
stone shop by the Nauvoo house. One I expect to get put into Mr. 
Ivins' barn, and the other 1 cannot get under lock and key in any place 
I know of yet, but 1 will have them taken the best care of that I can. 

I have also received from the hand of your lady your orders at length 
respecting matters and things, and 1 am happy indeed to receive such 
orders from you, for your views on these subjects are precisely my 
own. I do respond with my whole heart to every sentiment you have 
so nobly and so feelingly expressed, and while my heart beats, or this 
hand which now writes is able to write and wield a sword, you may 
depend on it being at your service in the glorious cause of liberty and 
truth, and ready in a moment's warning to defend the rights of man, 
both civil and religious. Our common rights and peace is all we ask, 
and we will use every peaceable means in our power to enjoy these ; our 
rights we must have, peace we must have if we have to fight for it. 

There has nothing worthy of notice come to my knowledge today, the 
gentlemen officers are seemingly very unhappy and out of humor with 
themselves more than with anybody else. They see we have the ad- 
vantage of them and that they cannot provoke us to break the law; and 
I think they know if they do that, we will use them up the right way. 
I guess they see that in our patience we possess our souls, and I know 
that if they shed, or cause to be shed, a drop of blood, of one of the 
least amongst us, that the lives of the transgressers shall atone for it. 
with the help of our God. 

I send you the ordinance that was passed by the court martial on 



A.D. ]842J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 97 

Saturday last, for your approval or otherwise, as it cannot become a 
law without your approbation. I also send you the returns of the elec- 
tion for Major- General, as yon ordered the election, you will please 
order the war secretary of the Legion (Colonel Sloan) to send for a 
commission. 

With the warmest feelings of my heart, I remain most respectfully 
yours, 

Wilson Law. 

P. S. — Afternoon, 6 o'clock, I have just learned that Mr. Pitman got 
a letter about noon and got ready immediately, and started off, as he 
said for Carthage, but I think for Quincy, giving it up for a bad job. 

W. L. 

About dark Brother Woolley returned from Carthage 
and stated that he had conversed with Chauncey Robin- 
son, who informed him that he had ascer- 

7 Unfriendly 

tained that the sheriffs were determined to spirit at 
have me, and if they could not succeed them- 
selves they would bring a force sufficient to search every 
house in the city, and if they could not find me there, 
they would search the state, &c. 

As before stated, the sheriffs left the city, about four 
o'clock, saying they were going to Carthage, but Brother 
Woolley did not meet them on the road. It is believed 
they are gone to Quincy. 

In consequence of these reports it was considered wis- 
dom that some of the brethren should go and inform me. 
Accordingly about nine o'clock Hyrum Smith, n , 

° * •/ ' Calmness and 

George Miller, William Law, Amasa Lyman, Courage of 
John D. Parker, Newel K. Whitney and 
William Clayton started by different routes on foot and 
came to the place where I was. When the statement 
was made to me I proposed to leave the city, suspecting 
I was no longer safe, but upon hearing the whole state- 
ment from those present I said I should not leave my 
present retreat yet, I did not think I was discovered, 
neither did I think I was any more unsafe than before. 
I discovered a degree of excitement and agitation man- 



98 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

ifested in those who brought the report, and I took occa- 
sion to gently reprove all present for letting report excite 
them, and advised them not to suffer themselves to be 
wrought upon by any report, but to maintain an even, 
undaunted mind. Each one began to gather courage, and 
all fears were soon subsided, and the greatest union and 
good feeling prevailed amongst all present. Various sub- 
jects then were conversed upon, and counsel given which 
was felt to be most seasonable and salutary. After con- 
versing awhile in the grove the company retired into the 
house and sat and conversed until about two o'clock, at 
which time they departed, evidently satisfied and much 
encouraged by the interview. 

A great whirlwind at Chauffailes, France. Thirty 
houses were carried away, and over twenty persons 
killed. Six hundred houses with all they contained were 
burned ac Ursel, Eussia. 

The following editorial appeared in the Times and 
Seasons: 

PERSECUTION. 

"Ifyewill live godly in Christ Jesus, ye shall suffer persecution,' 7 
was the solemn proclamation made by one of the ancient servants of 
God; a prophecy that has received its fulfillment in all ages, that has 
been known and understood by all Saints, and that has been engraven 
npou the memories of all the faithful; for while blood, and fire, and 
sword, and torture, have been brought into requisition against the 
Saints; whilst chains, and fetters and death have been employed, and 
their sighings and mournings have been wafted on the wings of the 
wind; their solitary hours and midnight cries; their distress and calam- 
ity have been disregarded. This eternal truth has re-echoed in their 
ears; it has touched their inmost soul; has been written on the tablet of 
their hearts— "if ye will live godly in Christ Jesus, ye shall suffer per- 
secution." 

Ever since the formation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 
Saints, calumny, reproach and persecution have flown plentifully iuto 
their lap — detraction, slander, falsehood, and misrepresentation have 
been gratuitously heaped upon them; they have beeu assailed by vex- 
atious law suits, organized mobs, aud illegally treated by militia; they 
have been imprisoned, whipped, tarred and feathered, and driven from 



A.D. 1842 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 99 

their hoines; they have had their property confiscated, and have suf- 
fered banishment, exile and death for their religion. 

Missouri has been one of the principal actors in the scene; she has 
made many a wife a widow, and many a child an orphan. The tears 
'of the oppressed have plentifully watered her soil; the cries of her 
robbed aud spoiled have rung through her valleys, and been re-echoed 
from hill to hill; many a weary pilgrim borne down with oppression and 
weary of life has laid himself down to sleep in the arms of death, while 
the blood of the innocent has drenched her soil. And never till the 
trump of God shall sound, the sleeping dead shall arise, the books be 
opened and the secret history of peoples and nations be unfolded, will 
the amount of their sufferings be fully known. That day will unfold 
scenes of wickedness, misery and oppression, and deeds of inhumanity 
and blood that the most eloquent cannot portray, the pencil of the lim- 
ner depict; and that is beyond the power of language to unfold — scenes 
of misery, of woe, and human suffering. Dipped in the malice of the 
most fiendish hate, the cup of misery has been wrung out, and they have 
drunk it to the very dregs. 

Missouri, frantic with rage, and not yet filled with blood, wishes now 
to follow her bleeding victims to their exile, and satiate herself with 
blood. And not satisfied with staining her own escutcheon, she wishes 
to decoy the noble, generous and patriotic sons of Illinois — to deceive 
them with appearances — to draw them into her snare, that they may be 
sharer in her crimes, and participate in her guilt and stamp with eternal 
infamy their character. We have already to blush for the gullibility of 
many of her [Illinois] editors who feel desirous to fan the deadly flame, 
and stain their hands with her [Missouri's] foul deeds. We would ad- 
vise such to halt, to pause for a moment — to reflect upon what they are 
doing. Have they not witnessed Missouri's wanton persecution; her 
cruel oppression; her deadly hate? Have they not loudly exclaimed 
against such proceedings; stood forth in defense of republicanism — and 
as true patriots defended the rights of man? And can they now advo- 
cate a cause that would attempt to make an innocent, virtuous people 
* 'tremble at the sight of gathering hosts! " or even moot the question. 

Who is it that has made his affidavit that Joseph Smith has been ac- 
cessory to shooting him? Governor Boggs of Missouri, a man, who, 
three years ago, issued an order to exterminate fifteen thousand men, 
women and children in republican America; a man who sanctioned 
mobocracy, and raised militia for that effect; a man who has been the 
cause of the death of scores of innocent people, and has actually been a 
wholesale murderer. This is the man who prefers the charge; a man 
who has long ago violated his constitutional oath. We deprecate at all 
times the commission of so diabolical a crime as that of murder if com- 



100 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

mitted upon our greatest enemies; and would content ourselves with 
letting the Lord take vengeance into His own hands. Moreover we 
would seriously ask if his [Governor Boggs'] statement concerning 
Joseph Smith is probable, or even possible, under the circumstances 
mentioned by him? Could Governor Boggs swear that Joseph Smith* 
was accessory before the fact, when he has not seen him for three 
years? and when Joseph Smith has not been in the state of Missouri for 
that length of time? Whatever his belief might be about his being engaged 
in the plot, he could not swear to it. Concerning Rockwell, he was in 
Missouri, and it is reported that he is gone there to prove himself clear, 
but we should think that Missouri is the last place to go ior justice; we 
don't think that she is capable of administering it to the Mormons; she 
must, however, first atone for her bloody deeds, and refund to them 
what she has robbed them of before their confidence can be restored in 
her justice, or righteousness. But we would ask, is there no one to 
murder men but Mormons? Are not assassins stalking through her , 
streets daily? Let the history of the frequent murders in St. Louis and 
other places in Missouri answer. But again, who does not know that 
Boggs has been in frequent difficulties with other people; that he ha-: 
been on the point of duelling with senators, and that his life has been 
frequently threatened, and that not by Mormons: this we are prepared 
to prove. Without saying more upon this subject we will proceed to 
give a history of the arrest. 

On Monday the 8th instant General Smith was arrested upon a war- 
rant under the signature of Governor Carlin, in accordance, as stated, 
with a call from Governor Reynolds of Missouri, upon the affidavit of 
ex-Governor Boggs. Mr. Rockwell was arrested at the same time as 
the principal. There was no evasion of this call for the persons of 
Messrs. Smith and Rockwell. The Municipal Court, however, issued a 
writ of habeas corpus, according to the constitution and city charter. 
This writ demanded the bodies of Smith and Rockwell to be brought 
before the said court, but the officers in charge of these men refused to 
obey its call; though after some deliberation, the" left them in charge 
of the city marshal, without the original writ by which they were ar- 
rested, and by which only they could be retained, and returned back to 
Governor Carlin for fuither instruction. Thus Messrs. Smith and Rock- 
well were free from the arrest, as the marshal had no authority to hold 
them in custody. Some two or three days after, the aforesaid officers 
returned, for the purpose of executing the Governor's order, without 
paying attention to the writ of habeas corpus issued by the Municipal 
Court; but Messrs. Smith and Rockwell were absent. 

In a free government every person's rights and privileges are the 
same; no extraordinary process can issue legally, nor no extra-judicial 



A.D. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 101 

act be required; justice, like her representative goddess, is blind to ap- 
pearances, and favors no one. In this point of view, then, let us legally 
examine the case in question: — Mr. Boggs makes an affidavit in Mis- 
suri. and charges one 0. P. Rockwell with * 'shooting Lilburn W. Boggs 
with intent to kill," on the night of the 6th of May, 1842, and that the 
said Eockwell had fled from justice to the state of Illinois. Shooting 
with intent to kill, and Mr. Boggs alive two or three months after to 
swear to it may be set down as insufficient grounds for writ from the 
governor of one state, to demand a person as a fugitive from justice in 
another state. For aught that appears to the contrary, he might have 
shot in his own defense and been justifiable; as the charge is not grounded 
on the wilful, malicious, or felonious intent, without the fear of God 
before his eyes, to murder. The affidavit is therefore not sufficient for 
the apprehension, detention and transportation of the said Rockwell to 
the courts of Missouri. Here we deny that the Orrin P. Rockwell 
arrested is the one intended in the writ, this Rockwell being not guilty. 

If Mr. Boggs kneio, of himself, the fact that Mr. Rockwell shot at 
him with intent to kill, why did he delay the prosecution some two or 
three months? If he obtained his knowledge from a second or third 
person, why not avail himself of their affidavits in the body of the writ? 

Again, Mr. Boggs charges one Mr. Joseph Smith with being "acces- 
sory before the fact to an assault with intent to kill," on the night of 
'the sixth of May, 1842. This must allude to some other Joseph Smith, 
as the Joseph Smith of this city, was in Nauvoo on the aforesaid sixth 
of May, 1842, and on the next day he was at his post as Lieut. Gen. of 
the Nauvoo Legion. Nor can it be proved that he has been in the state 
of Missouri for the last three years. 

But for the sake of argument admit the language of the writ, and 
Joseph Smith as an accessory before the fact, with intent to kill, must 
have aided or abetted by words, or by means, while in the state of Il- 
linois, and cannot come under the purview of the fugitive act. Having 
not fled from justice from another state; and, according to the express 
language of the constitution; "he could not be liable to be transported 
out of the state for an offense committed within the same." 

An accessory before the fact in man-slaughter is an anomaly — and 
now if the Joseph Smith of Nauvoo, has committed a crime of the nature 
charged in the writ, which we deny in toto, he should he held amenable 
to the laws of Illinois, and in the ordinary course of procedure by in- 
dictment, in accordance with the right of the constitution, which says 
that he should have a "speedy public trial by au impartial jury of the 
vicinage." 

Judging now from all the facts of the case, taking the two affidavits 
together, we must say that the whole forms but a poor excuse for exec- 



102 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

utive interference, and when properly weighed by good judges of law 
in criminal jurisprudence, will be found wanting in all the important 
counts which constitute a fair case. 

As to the writ of habeas corpus, issued by the Municipal Court of 
the city of Nauvoo, it was not acted upon, though we believe that so 
long as it was not incompatible with the spirit and meatiing of the con- 
stitution of the state, and of the constitution of the United States, its 
power was sovereign, as to the rights and privileges of citizens, granted 
to them by the City Charter, having these express privileges, in words 
as follows: "To make, ordain, establish and execute all such ordin- 
ances, not repugnant to the constitution of the United States and of this 
state, as they may deem necessary for the peace, benefit, good order, 
regulation, convenience and cleanliness of the city 1 ' — and "the Munici- 
pal Court shall have power to grant writs of habeas corpus in all cases 
arising under the ordinance of the city council.'' 

Now, it is well known that if this court exceeded the bounds of the 
chartered power, or transcended the limits of the constitution of the 
state, or United States, it could be made to respond in a writ of quo 
warranto; and, as a writ of habeas corpus can only test the validity^ 
not the virtue of a process (as testimony to prove the guilt or innocence 
of a person — under an investigation by habeas corpus, is inadmissible), 
we believe, that judges, lawyers, and jurors, will not be very apprehen- 
sive that the law of the land, or the rights of the people, will suffer viol- 
ence on this account. 

Under the existing animosity of the inhabitants of the state of Mis- 
souri, manifested towards the Church of Latter-day Saints, prudence 
would dictate great caution, and forbearance in the proceedings of 
public functionaries, relative to claims for persons or property in favor 
of either party, holding sacred the old maxim: "That it would be better 
to let ninety and nine guilty persons go unpunished, than to punish one 
innocent person unjustly." 

Concerning the whole matter, we believe that the parties are entirely 
innocent of the charges alleged against them; and that the whole of it 
is a wicked and malicious persecution. But it may here be asked by 
some, if they are innocent, why did they not apply to the master in 
chancery for a writ of habeas corpus, present themselves before the 
judge of the District Court, and prove themselves clear? 

First, we would answer, that the writ of our Municipal Court was 
treated with contempt by the officers, and it would have been dishonor- 
ing our municipal authorities to have acknowledged the insufficiency of 
their writ, and to have let our city charter be wantonly trodden under 
foot; and that could not have been enforced without coersion, and per- 
haps employing military force, which under the present excited state of 
society might have been construed to treason." 



A.D. 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 103 

In the second place, if they appealed to the District Court it might 
have availed them nothing, even if the judge felt disposed to do justice 
(which we certainly believe he would have done) as their dismissal 
would rest upon some technicalities of law, rather than upon the merits 
of the case: as testimony to prove the guilt or innocence of the persons 
charged, could not be admitted ou the investigation on a writ of habeas 
corpus, the question not being whether the persons are guilty or not 
guilty; but merely to test the validity of the writ; which if proved to 
be issued in due form of law, however innocent the parties might be, 
would subject them to be transported to Missouri — to be murdered. 

Upon the whole we think that they have taken the wisest course; we 
have no reflections to make upou their conduct, and shall maintain un- 
shaken our opinions unless we have more light on the subject than we 
now possess. 

Tuesday, August 16.— Wrote as follows: — 

Ihe Prophet 1 s Letter to Emma Smith — Detailing Prospective Movements. 

Nauvoo, August 1G, 1842. 
My Dear Emma: — I embrace this opportunity to express to you some 
of my feelings this morning. First of all, I take the liberty to tender 
you my sincere thanks for the two interesting and consoling visits that 
you have made me during my almost exiled situation. Tongue cannot 
express the gratitude of my heart, for the warm and true-hearted 
friendship you have manifested in these things towards me. The time 
has passed away, since you left me, very agreeably thus far; my mind 
being perfectly reconciled to my fate, let it be what it may. I have 
been kept from melancholy and dumps, by the kind-heartedness of 
Brother Derby, and his interesting chit-chat from time to time, which 
has called my mind from the more strong contemplation of things and 
subjecfs that would have preyed more earnestly upon my feelings. 

Last night Brothers Hyrum, Miller, Law, and others came to see us. 
They seemed much agitated, and expressed some fears in consequence 
of some maneuverings and some flying reports which they had heard in 
relation to our safety; but, after relating what it was, I was able to 
comprehend the whole matter to my entire satisfaction, and did not feel 
at all alarmed or uneasy. They think, however, that the militia will be 
called out to search the city; and if this should be the case, I would be 
much safer for the time being at a little distance off, until Governor 
Carlin could get weary, and be made ashamed of his corrupt and un- 
hallowed proceedings. I had supposed, however, that if there were any 
serious operations taken by the governor, that Judge Ralston, or Brother 
Hollister would have notified us; and cannot believe that anything very 



104 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

serious is to be apprehended, until we obtain information from a source 
that can be relied upon. 

I have consulted whether it is best for you to go to Quincy and see 
the Governor; but, on the whole, he is a fool; and the impressions that 
are suggested to my mind are, that it will be of no use; and the more 
we notice him and flatter him, the more eager he will be for our destruc- 
tion. You may write to him whatever you see proper, but to go and 
see him, I do not give my consent at present. 

Brother Miller again suggested to me the propriety ot my accompany- 
ing him to the Pine Woods, and then he return, and bring you and the 
children. My mind will eternally revolt at every suggestion of that 
kind, more especially since the dream and vision that was manifested to 
me on the last night. My safety is with you, if you want to have it so. 
Anything more or less than this cometh of evil. My feelings and counsel 
I think ought to be abided. If I go to the Pine country, you shall go 
along with me, and the children; and if you and the children go not 
with me, I don't go. I do not wish to exile myself for the sake of my 
own life, I would rather fight it out. It is for your sakes, therefore, 
that I would do such a thing, f I will go with you, then, in the same 
carriage, and on horseback from time to time as occasion may require; 
for I am not willing to trust you in the hands of those who cannot feel 
the same interest for you that I feel; to be subject to the caprice, temp- 
tations, or notions of anybody whatever. And I must say that I am 
prepossessed somewhat with the notion of going- to the Pine country 
anyhow; for I am tired of the mean, low, and unhallowed vulgarity of 
some portions of the society in which we live; and I think if I could 
have a respite of about six months with my family, it would be a savor 
of life unto life, with my house. Nevertheless, if it were possible, I 
would like to live here in peace and wind up my business; but if it 
should be ascertained to a dead certainty that there is no other remedy, 
then we will round up our shoulders and cheerfully endure it; and this 
will be the plan:/ Let my horse, saddle, saddle-bags, and valise to put 
some shirts and clothing in, be sent to me. Let Brothers Derby and 
Miller take a horse and put it into my buggy, with a trunk containing 
my heavier clothes, shoes, boots, &c; and let Brother Taylor accompany 
us to his father's, and there we will tarry, taking every precaution to 
keep out of the hands of the enemy, until you can arrive with the chil- 
dren. Let Brother Hyrum bring you. Let Lorin Farr and Brother Clayton 
come along, and bring all the writings, and papers, books, and histo- 
ries, for we shall want a scribe in order that we may pour upon the 
world the truth, like the lava from Mount Vesuvius. Then, let all the 
goods, household furniture, clothes, and store goods that can be procured 
be put on the boat, and let twenty or thirty of the best men that we 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 105 

can find be put on board to man it, and let them meet us at Prairie-du- 
Chien; and from thence we will wend oar way like larks up the Missis- 
sippi, until the towering mountains and rocks shall remind us of the 
places of our nativity, and shall look like safety and home; and then we 
will bid defiance to the world, to Carlin, Boggs, Bennett, and all their 
whorish whores and motly clan, that follow in their wake, Missouri not 
excepted, and until the damnation of hell rolls upon them, by the voice, 
and dread thunders, and trump of the eternal God. Then in that day 
will we not shout in the victory, and be crowned with eternal joys, for 
the battles we have fought, having kept the faith and overcome the 
world? 

Tell the children it is well with their father as yet; and that he re- 
mains in fervent prayer to Almighty God for the safety of himself, and 
for you, and for them. 

Tell Mother Smith that it shall be well with her son, whether in life 
or in death; for thus saith the Lord God. Tell her that I remember her 
all the while, as well as Lucy, and all the rest. They all must be of 
good cheer. 

Tell Hyrum to be sure and not fail to carry out my instructions; but, 
at the same time if the militia does not come, and we* should get any 
favorable information, all may be well yet. 

Yours in haste, your affectionate husband until death, through all 
eternity, for evermore. 

Joseph Smith. 

P. S. — I want you to write to Lorenzo D. Wasson, and get him to 
make affidavit to all he knows about Bennett, and forward it. I also 
want you to ascertain from Hyrum whether he will conform to what I 
have requested: and you must write me an answer per bearer, giving 
me all the news you have, and what is the appearance of things this 
morning. 

J. S. 

I also wrote General Law as follows: — 

Joseph Smith's Letter to Wilson Law — Concerning Probable Movements oj 

the Prophet. 

Headquarters Nauvoo Legion, August 16, 1842. 
Major- General Laiv: 

Beloved Brother and Friend: — Those few lines which I received 
from you, written on the loth, were to me like apples of gold in pictures 
of silver. I rejoice with exceeding great joy to be associated in the high 
and responsible stations which we hold, [with one] whose mind and 
feelings and heart are so congenial with my own. I love that soul that 



106 .HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. T^.D. 1342 

is so nobly entabernacled in that clay of yours. May God Almighty 
grant that it may be satiated with seeing a fulfillment of every virtuous 
and manly desire that you possess! May we be able to triumph glori- 
ously over those who seek our destruction and overthrow, which I be- 
lieve we shall. 

The news you wrote me is more favorable than that which was com- 
municated by the brethren. They seemed a little agitated for my safety r 
and advised me for the Pine Woods country, but I succeeded admirably 
in calming all their fears; but, nevertheless, as I said in my former let- 
ter, I was willing to exile myself for months and years, if it would be 
for the welfare and safety of the people; and I do not know but it would 
be as well for me to take a trip to the Pine countries, and remain until 
arrangements can be made for my most perfect safety when I return. 
These are, therefore, to confer with you on this subject, as I want to 
have a concert of action in everything I do. If I knew that they would 
oppress me alone, and let the rest of you dwell peaceably and quietly, I 
think it would be the wisest plan to absent myself for a little season, if 
by that means we could prevent the effusion of blood. 

Please write and give me your mind on that subject, and all other in- 
formation that has come to hand today, and what are the signs of the 
times. I have no news, for I am where I cannot get much. All is quiet 
and peaceable around. I therefore wait with earnest expectation for your 
advices. I am anxious to know your opinion on any course that I may 
see proper to take, for in the multitude of counsel there is safety. 

I add no more, but subscribe myself your faithful and most obedient 
servant, friend, and brother, 

Joseph Smith, 
Lieut. -General of the Nauvoo Legion of Illinois Militia. 

The foregoing letters were delivered to Brother Derby, 
who proceeded imruediatedly to the city. 

Brother Derby has taken the greatest interest in my 
welfare, and I feel to bless him. 

Blessed is Brother Erastus H. Derby, and he shall be 
Blessing oi blessed of the Lord. He possesses a sober 
upo^Erastus mind, and a faithful heart. The snares 
H.Derby. therefore that will subsequently befall other 
men, who are treacherous and rotten hearted, shall not 
come nigh unto his doors, but shall be far from the path 
of his feet. He loveth wisdom and shall be found possessed 
of her. Let there be a crown of glory and a diadem 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 107 

upon his head. Let the light of eternal truth shine forth 
upon his understanding; let his name be had in everlast- 
ing remembrance; let the blessings of Jehovah be crowned 
upon his posterity after him, for he rendered me consola- 
tion in the lonely places of my retreat. How good and 
glorious it has seemed unto me, to find pure and holy 
friends, who are faithful, just, and true, and whose hearts 
fail not; and whose knees are confirmed and do not falter, 
while they wait upon the Lord, in administering to my 
necessities, in the day when the wrath of mine enemies 
was poured out upon me. 

In the name of the Lord, I feel in my heart to bless 
them, and to say in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, 
that these are the ones that shall inherit eternal life. I 
say it by virtue of the Holy Priesthood, and by the minis- 
tering of holy angels, and by the gift and power of the 
Holy Ghost. * 

How glorious were my feelings when I met that faithful 
and friendly band, on the night of the eleventh, on Thurs- 
day, on the island at the mouth of the slough, sentiments of 
between Zarahemla and Nauvoo: with what TowardaHis 
unspeakable delight, and what transports of wife Emma. 
joy swelled my bosom, when I took by the hand, on that 
night, my beloved Emma — she that was my wife, even 
the wife of my youth, and the choice of my heart. Many 
were the reverberations of my mind when I contemplated 
for a moment the many scenes we had been called to pass 
through, the fatigues and the toils, the sorrows and suf- 
ferings, and the joys and consolations, from time to time, 
which had strewed our paths and crowned our board. Oh 
what a commingling of thought filled my mind for the mo- 
ment, again she is here, even in the seventh trouble — un- 
daunted, firm, and unwavering — unchangeable, affection- 
ate Emma! 

There was Brother Hyrum who next took 
me by the hand — a natural brother. Thought Love f o°r P His s 
I to myself, Brother Hyrum, what a faithful Hyrum* 



108 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH [A.D. 1842 

heart you have got! Oh may the Eternal Jehovah crown 
eternal blessings upon your head, as a reward for the 
care you have had for my soul! how many are the 
sorrows we have shared together ; and again we find our- 
selves shackled with the unrelenting hand of oppression. 
Hyrum, thy name shall be written in the book of the law 
of the Lord, for those who come after thee to look upon, 
that they may pattern after thy works. 

Said I to myself, Here is Brother Newel K. Whitney 

also. How many scenes of sorrows have strewed our 

paths together; and yet we meet once more 

The Band ^ . / 

Between the to share again. Thou art a faithful friend in 
xeweiK. whom the afflicted sons of men can confide, 

ney * with the most perfect safety. Let the bless- 

ings of the Eternal also be crowned upon his head. How 
warm that heart! how anxious that soul ! for the welfare 
of one who has been cast out, and hated of almost all 
men. Brother Whitney, thou knowest not how strong 
those ties are that bind my soul and heart to thee. 

My heart was overjoyed as I took the faithful band by 
the hand, that stood upon the shore, one by one. William 
Law, William Clayton, Dimick B. Huntington, George 
Miller, were there. The above names constituted the little 
group. 

I do not think to mention the particulars of the history 
of that sacred night, which shall forever be remembered 
mu „ , , by me ; but the names of the faithful are what 

The Prophet's . , . 

Exaltation of I wish to record in this place. These I have 
met in prosperity, and they were my friends; 
and I now meet them in adversity, and they are still my 
warmer friends. These love the God that I serve; they 
love the truths that I promulgate ; they love those virtu- 
ous, and those holy doctrines that I cherish in my bosom 
with the warmest feelings of my heart, and with that zeal 
which cannot be denied. I love friendship and truth; I 
love virtue and law; I love the God of Abraham, of Isaac, 
and of Jacob ; and they are my brethren, and I shall live ; 



AD. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 10i> 

and because I live they shall live also. These are not the 
only ones who have administered to my necessity and 
whom the Lord will bless. There is Brother John D. Par- 
ker. and Brother Amasa Lyman, and Brother Wilson Law, 
and Brother Henry G. Sherwood. My heart feels to re- 
ciprocate the unwearied kindnesses that have been bestowed 
upon me by these men. They are men of noble stat- 
ure, of noble hands, and of noble deeds; possessing noble, 
and daring, and giant hearts and souls. There is Brother 
Joseph B. Noble also, I would call up in remembrance 
before the Lord. There is Brother Samuel H. Smith, a 
natural brother — he is even as Hyrum. There is Brother 
Arthur Millikin also, who married my youngest sister, 
Lucy: he is a faithful, an honest, and an upiight man. 

While I call up in remembrance before the Lord these 
men, I would be doing injustice to those who rowed me 
in the skiff up the river that night, after I The Prophet's 
parted with the lovely group — who brought me Gratitude - 
to this my safe, and lonely, and private retreat — Brother 
Jonathan Dunham, and the other, whose name I do not 
know. Many were the thoughts that swelled my aching- 
heart, while they were toiling faithfully with their oars. 
They complained not of hardship and fatigue to secure my 
safety. My heart would have been harder than an ada- 
mantine stone, if I had not prayed for them with anxious 
and fervent desire. I did so, and the still small voice 
whispered to my soul: These, that share your toils with 
such faithful hearts, shall reign with you in the kingdom 
of their God; but I parted with them in silence, and came 
to my retreat. I hope I shall see them again, that I may 
toil for them, and administer to their comfort also. They 
shall not want a friend while I live; my heart shall love 
those, and my hands shall toil for those, who love and 
toil for me, and shall ever be found faithful to my friends. 
Shall I be ungratefulf Verily no! God forbid! 

I design to continue this subject at a future time. 



Ill) HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. • [A.D. 1812 



CHAPTER VI. 

CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN JOSEPH SMITH AND WILSON LAW, 
ET AL. — THE PROPHET ON THE ATTITUDE OF GOVERNOR 
CARLIN TOWARDS HIMSELF AND THE SAINTS — REVIVAL 
OF THE ZEAL OF SIDNEY RIGDON — THE PROPHET' S 
BLESSINGS UPON HIS FRIENDS. 

Tuesday, August 16, 1842. — Brother Derby returned in 
the evening, bringing the following letter: 

Letter of Emma Smith to Joseph Smith, Belating to the Future Movements 
of the Prophet, and Items of Business, 

Dear Husband: — I am ready to go with you if you are obliged to 
leave; and Hyrum says he will go with rue. I shall make the best 
arrangements I can and be as well prepared as possible. But still I 
feel good confidence that you can be protected without leaving this 
country. There are more ways thau one to take care of you, and I 
believe that you can still 'direct in your business concerns if we are all 
of us prudent in the matter. If it was pleasant weather I should con- 
trive to see you this evening, but 1 dare not run too much of a risk, on 
account of so many going to see you. 

General Adams sends the propositions coucerning his land, two dol- 
lars an acre, payments as follows: Assumption of mortgage, say about 
fourteen hundred, interest included. Taxes due, supposed about thirty 
dollars. Town property one thousand dollars. Balance, money pay- 
able in one, two, three or four years. 

Brother Derby will tell you all the information we have on hand. I 
think we will have news from Quincy as soon as tomorrow. 

Yours affectionately forever, 

Emma Smith. 

Letter of Wilson Law to Joseph Smith — Advises Retirement of the 
Prophet from. Nauvoo until Next Governor Takes his Seat of Office. 

Nauvoo City, Illinois, 1 o'clock, afternoon, August 16, 1842. 
Lieutenant- General Josepih Smith: 

My Dear Friend. — I have just received and read yours of today, and 
hasten to reply. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. Ill 

There is no movement of any kind going on today amongst the 
enemy, as far as I can see, which helps to strengthen me in my opin- 
ion of yesterday; but still it might be a calm before a storm, and if so we 
will meet it when it comes. You wish my opinion respecting your 
absenting yourself for some time from those friends that are dear to 
you as life, and to whom you are also as dear, and from the place and 
station to which you are called by Him who ruleth in the armies of 
heaven and amongst the inhabitants of the earth. 

I must confess that I feel almost unworthy to give an opinion on the 
subject, knowing that your own judgment is far superior to mine; but 
nevertheless you shall have it freely. It is this; I think that if they 
cannot get you peaceably according to the forms of law, that they will 
not dare to attempt violence of any kind upon the inhabitants of the 
city; for they are well aware that they cannot insult us with impunity, 
neither use violence, only at the risk of their lives; and there are but 
few men who are willing to risk their lives in a bad cause. It is the 
principles and spirit of liberty, of truth, of virtue, and of religion, and 
equal rights, that make men courageous, and valiant and fearless in the 
day of battle and of strife, and just the contrary with the oppressor; for 
nine times out of ten, a bad cause will make a man a coward, and he 
will flee w T hen no man pursueth. 

Now if I am right in thinking that it is you alone they seek to de- 
stroy, as soon as they find they cannot get you, they will cease to 
trouble the city except w T ith spies; and if we knew that you were com- 
pletely out of their reach, we could either laugh at their folly, or whip 
them for impertinence or anything else, as the case may be; for we 
would feel so happy in your safety, that we could meet them in any 
shape. 

On the whole, I think it would be better for you to absent yourself 
till the next governor takes the chair, for I do think if you are not here 
tbey will not attempt any violence on the city; and if they should, they 
will disgrace themselves in the eyes of the world, and the woild will 
justify us in fighting for our rights, aud then you can come out like a 
lion, and lead your people to victory and to glory in the name of the 
Lord of Hosts. 

I know the sacrifice you must make in taking this course. I know it 
will grieve your noble spirit to do so; for when I think of it myself, I 
feel no desire in life but to fight, and to cut off from the earth all who 
oppress, and to establish that true form of government at once, which 
would guarantee to every man equal rights. I know Ave have justice 
on our side in respect of city laws, and that the acts of the Municipal 
Court are legal; but the question is, are we now able to assert them? 
or had we better wait till we are more able? The latter course will 



112 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

give us peace a little while, by sacrificing your liberty, and the feelings 
of your family and friends, and depriving us all of your society and gov- 
erning wisdom. 

I will only add I am ready for either course; and may God direct us 
to do that that is best. If you should conclude to go for awhile, I must 
see you before you go; and for the present, I will bid you be cheerful, 
and make yourself as happy as you can, for the right side of the wheel 
will soon be up again. 

And till then and forever, I remain under every circumstance, your 
friend and obedient servant, 

Wilson Law. 

General James Arlington Bennett wrote rne from New 
York as follows: 

Letter of James Arlington Bennett to Joseph Smith, Anent John C. Ben- 
net and his Forthcoming Anti-Mormon Book. 

Arlington House, August 16, 1842. 

Dear Sir. — Your polite and friendly note was handed to me a few 
days since by Dr. Willard Richards, who 1 must say, is a very fine speci- 
men of the Mormon people, if they are all like him; and indeed I think 
him a very excellent representative of yourself, as I find he is your 
most devoted admirer and true disciple. He spent two days with me r 
and from his arguments, and from his mild and gentlemanly demeanor, 
almost made me a Mormon. 

You have another representative here (who spent a day with me some 
time since) of the name of Foster, who is, 1 think, president of the 
Church in New York, and most unquestionably a most excellent and 
good man, and would be so if he were Turk, Jew or Saint. He is 
ab initio , a good man, and to you a most true, enthusiastic and devoted 
disciple. He has no guile. Dr. Bernhisel, of New York, too, is a most 
excellent man and true Christian. These are men with whom I could asso- 
ciate forever, even if I never joined their Church or acknowledged their 
faith. 

General John C. Bennett called on me last Friday and spent just two 
hours, when he left, he said for the Eastern States. Being aware that 
Elder Richards is here, he had very little to say. He, however, pro- 
posed to me to aid him, whether serious or not, in arranging materials 
for publishing "An Exposition of Mormon Secrets and Practices," 
which I promptly refused, on two grounds: 

1st. That I had nothing to do with any quarrel that might arise* 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 113 

between you and him, as I could not be a judge of the merits or de- 
merits of the matter: and 

2nd. That inasmuch as he himself had proposed to you and your 
council to confer on me honors which I never sought, yet which I 
highly prize, it would be the height of ingratitude, as well as incon- 
sistent with every principle of common honesty and propriety, for me 
to join him in an effort to lower my own honors by attempting to lower 
in public estimation the people from whom those honors emanated. 

He gave Bennett of the Herald his commission, which I opposed 
from the very first; and you now see, by that paper, the sport which 
that man has made of it. I tell you there is no dependence on the 
friendship of that editor, when his interest is at issue. I am assured 
that James Gordon Bennett is going to publish, conjointly with John 
C. Bennett, on half profit, the exposition against you and your people, 
which is going to contain a great number of scandalous cuts and plates. 
But don't be concerned; you will receive no injury whatever from any 
thing any man or set of men may say against you. The whole of this 
muss is only extending your fame, and will increase your numbers ten- 
fold. ' 

You have nothing to expect from that part of the community who 
are bigotedly attached to other churches. They have always believed 
and still believe everything said to your disadvantage; and what Gen- 
eral John C. Bennett is now saying in the papers is nothing more 
than what was common report before, throughout this whole commu- 
nity, insomuch that I had to contradict it in the Herald under the 
signature of "Cincinnatus"— and even requested the Elders of the 
Mormon Church to do so long ago. You, therefore have lost not a 
whit of ground by it. I must in charity forbear commenting on the 
course of General Bennett in this matter. Considering all things 
delicacy forbids such a course. 

There are some things, however, I feel very sorely, and could wish 
they had not transpired. He and the Herald will make money out of 
the book, and there the matter will end, as you will find that the 
Herald will puff it to the skies.* 

The books which I sent you you will retain in your hands for the 
present. 

* Bennett's book, "The History of the Saints, or an Exposure of Joseph Smith 
and Mormonism," was not published by the New York Herald, but by a Boston 
publishing house, Leland & Whiting, 7L Washington St. The book was a failure 
from every point of view, in structure, literary merit and convincing power. 
The insincerity and the corrupt-mindedness of the author is loudly proclaimed by 
the ribald spirit that pervades the whole work. 

8 Vol. V. 



114 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

My respects to your amiable lady and all friends; and believe me as 
ever, though not a Mormon, your sincere friend, 

James Arlington Bennett. 

P. S. — I know of no reason why the Wasp was not continued to 
be sent to me. I don't like the name. Mildness should characterize 
everything that comes from Nauvoo; and even a name, as Peleg says in 
his ethics, has much influence on one side or the other. My respects 
to your brother, its editor. I would just say that General John C. 
Bennett appeared to me to be in very low spirits, and I find that many 
communications intended for you from me have never reached you- 
Those books were made over to John C. Bennett, on the presumption 
that he would, in his own name, present them for the benefit of the 
Temple. 

J. A. B. 



Wednesday, August 17. — I walked ouL into the woods 
for exercise in company with Brother Derby where we 

were accidentally discovered by a young man. 
pucf^Re- We asked him various questions concerning 
JovSId' Dis ^ e Public feeling and situation of matters 

around, to all which he answered prompt- 
ly. On being requested not to make it known where 
we were, he promised faithfully he would not, and said 
time would tell whether he did or no. 



Letter of Wilson Law to Joseph Smith — Advising that the Prophet Secrete 
Himself in Nauvoo. 

Nauvoo City, Illinois, August 17, 1842. 
Lieutenant- General Joseph Smith: 

Dear Friend: — Everything is moving along in the city in the usual 
tranquil and industrious manner. There is no change in the appear- 
ance of things that a common observer could see, although to one who 
knows and is acquainted with the countenances of the thinking few, it 
is evident that their minds are troubled more than common; and I 
know by myself that they cannot help it. And why should it be other- 
wise, when the Lord's anointed is hunted like a lion of the forest, by 
the most wicked and oppressive generation that has ever beenjsince the 
days of our Savior. Indeed, every movement of this generation re- 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 115 

minds me of the history of the people who crucified Christ It was 
nothing but mob law, mob rule, and mob violence all the time. The only 
difference is that the governors then were more just than the governors 
now; they were willing to acquit innocent men, but our governors now 
despise justice, garble and pervert the law, and join in with the mob in 
pursuit of innocent blood. 

I have been meditating on your communication of yesterday, and will 
just add a thought or so on the subject, respecting particularly your 
going to the Pine country. I think I would not go there for some time, 
if at all. do not believe that an armed force will come upon us at a) 1 
unless they get hold of you first; and then we rescue you, which we 
would do under any circumstances, with the help of God; but I would 
rather do it within the limits of the city, under the laws of the city. 
Therefore I would think it better to quarter in the city and not long 
in one place at once. I see no reason why you might not stay 
in safety within the city for months without any knowing it, only 
those who ought, and that as few as is necessary. 

I must close for the present, remaining as ever, your affectionate 
friend and obedient servant, 

Wilson Law. 

Letter of Emma Smith to Governor Carlin— Pleading the Cause of the 
Prophet and the People of Nauvoo Before his Excellency. 

Nauvoo, August 17, 1842. 
lo his Excellency Governor Carlin: 

Sir: — It is with feeling of no ordinary cast that I have retired, after 
the business of the day, and evening too, to address your honor. I am 
at a loss how to commence; my mind is crowded with subjects too 
numerous to be contained in one letter. I find myself almost destitute 
of that confidence, necessary to address a person holding the authority 
of your dignified and responsible office; and I would now offer, as an 
excuse for intruding upon your time and attention, the justice of my cause . 

Was my cause the interest of an individual, or of a number of individ- 
uals, then, perhaps, I might be justified in remaining silent. But it 
is not. Nor is it the pecuniary interest of a whole community alone 
that prompts me again to appeal to your Excellency. But, dear Sir, it 
is for the peace and safety of hundreds, I may safely say, of this com- 
munity, who are not guilty of any offense against the laws of the coun- 
try; and also the life of my husband, who has not committed any crime 
whatever; neither has he transgressed any of the laws, or any part of 
the Constitution of the United States; neither has he at any time in- 
fringed upon the rights of any man, or of any class of men, or com- 



116 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1842 

inunity of any description. Need I say he is not guilty of the crime 
alleged against him by Governor Boggs? Indeed it does seem entirely 
superfluous for me, or any one of his friends in this place, to testify his 
innocence of that crime, when so many of the citizens of your place, 
and of many other places in this state, as well as in the Territory, [of 
Iowa] do know positively that the statement of Governor Boggs is with- 
out the least shadow of truth: and we do know, and so do many others, 
that the prosecution against him has been conducted in an illegal man- 
ner; and every act demonstrates the fact that all the design of the pros- 
ecution is to throw him into the power of his enemies, without the 
least ray of hope that he would ever be allowed to obtain a fair trial: 
and that he would be inhumanly and ferociously murdered, no person, 
having a knowledge of the existing circumstances, has one remaining 
doubt: and your honor will recollect that you said to me that you would 
not advise Mr. Smith ever to trust himself in Missouri. 

And, dear Sir, you cannot for one moment indulge unfriendly feeling 
towards him, if he abides by your counsel. Then, Sir, why is it that he 
should be thus cruelly pursued? Why not give him the privilege of the 
laws of this state? When I reflect upon the many cruel and illegal 
operations of Lilburn W. Boggs, aud the consequent suffering of myself 
and family, and the incalculable losses and sufferings of many hundreds 
who survived, and the many precious lives that were lost, — all the effect 
of unjust prejudice and misguided ambition, produced by. misrepresen- 
tation and calumny, my bosom heaves with unutterable anguish. And 
who, that is as well acquainted with the facts as the people at the city 
of Quincy, would censure me, if I should say that my heart burued with 
just indignation towards our caiumniators as well as the perpetrators of 
those horrid crimes? 

But happy would I now be to pour out my heart in gratitude to Gov- 
ernor Boggs, if he had rose up with the dignity and authority of the 
chief executive of the state, and put down every illegal transaction, and 
protected the peaceable citizens and enterprising immigrants from the 
violence of plundering outlaws, who have ever been a disgrace to the 
state, and always will, so Ions: as they go unpunished. Yes, I say, how 
happy would I be to render him not only the gratitude of my own heart, 
but the cheering effusions of the joyoas souls of fathers and mothers, 
of brothers and sisters, widows and orphans, whom he might have 
saved, by such a course, from now drooping under the withering hand 
of adversity, brought upon them by the persecutions of wicked and cor- 
rupt men. 

And now may I entreat your Excellency to lighten the hand of op- 
pression and persecution which is laid upon me and my family, which 
materially affect the peace and welfare of this whole community; for 



A.1X 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 117 

let me assure you that there are many whole families that are entirely 
dependent upon the prosecution and success of Mr. Smith's temporal 
business for their support; and, if he is prevented from attending to 
the common vocations of life, who will employ those innocent, indus- 
trious, poor people, and provide for their wants? 

But, my dear Sir, when I recollect the interesting interview I and 
my friends had with you, when at your place, and the warm assurances 
you gave us of your friendship and legal protection, I cannot doubt for 
a moment your honorable sincerity; but do still expect you to consider 
our claims upon your protection |from ever^ encroachment upon our 
legal rights as loyal citizens, as we always have been, still are, and are 
determined always to be a law-abiding people; and I still assure myself 
that, when you are fully acquainted with the illegal proceedings prac- 
ticed against us in the suit of Governor Boggs, you will recall those 
writs which have been issued against Mr. Smith and Rockwell, as you 
must be aware that Mr. Smith was not in Missouri, and of course he 
could not have left there; with many other considerations, which, if 
duly considered, will justify Mr. Smith in the course he has taken. 

And now I appeal to your Excellency, as I would unto a father, who 
is not only able but willing to shield me and mine from every unjust 
prosecution. I appeal to your sympathies, and beg you to spare me 
and my helpless children. I beg you to spare my innocent children the 
heart-rending sorrow of again seeing their father unjustly dragged to 
prison, or to death. I appeal to your affections as a son, and beg you 
to spare our aged mother — the only surviving parent we have left — the 
unsupportable affliction of seeing her son, whom she knows to be inno- 
cent of the crimes laid to his charge, thrown again into the hands of 
his enemies, who have so long sought for his life; in whose life and pros- 
perity she only looks for the few remaining comforts she can enjoy. I 
entreat of your Excellency to spare us these afflictions and many suffer- 
ings which cannot be uttered, and secure to yourself the pleasure of 
doing good, and vastly increasing human happiness — secure to yourself 
the benediction of the aged, and the gratitude of the young, and the 
blessing and the veneration of the rising generation. 

Respectfully, your most obedient, 

Emma Smith. 

P. S. — Sir, I hope you will favor me with an answer. 

E. S. 

Several rumors were afloat in the city, intimating that 
my retreat had been discovered, and that it was no longer 
safe for me to remain at Brother Sayers' ; consequently 



118 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

Emma came to see me at night, and informed me of the 
report. It was considered wisdom that I 

The Prophet's * , 

Removal to should remove immediately, and accordingly 
Granger's in I departed in company with Emma and Brother 
Derby, and went to Carlos Granger's, who 
lived in the north-east part of the city. Here we were 
kindly received and well treated. 

Friday morning , 19. William Clayton presented Emma's 
letter of the 17th to Governor Carlin at Quincy, in pres- 
GovemorCar- ence of Judge Ralston. The governor read 
Affairs'iiT 8 ° f *^ e l e tter with much attention, apparently; 
Nauvoo. an( j w h e n he got through, he passed high en- 

comiums on Emma Smith, and expressed astonishment 
at the judgment and talent manifest in the manner of her 
address. He presented the letter to Judge Ralston, re- 
questing him to read it. Governor Carlin then proceeded 
to reiterate the same language as on a former occasion, 
viz., that he was satisfied there was "no excitement any- 
where but in Nauvoo, amongst the 'Mormons' them- 
selves;" all was quiet, and no apprehension of trouble in 
other places, so far as he was able to ascertain. 

He afterwards stated, when conversing on another sub- 
ject, that "persons were offering their services every day, 
either in person or by letter, and held themselves in readi- 
ness to go against the 'Mormons' whenever he should call 
upon them; but he never had the least idea of calling out 
the militia, neither had he thought it necessary." 

There was evidently a contradiction in his assertions in 
the above instances; and, although he said "there was 
no excitement but amongst the Mormons," it is evident 
he knew better. He also said that it was his opinion that, 
if Joseph would give himself up to the sheriff, he would 
be honorably acquitted, and the matter would be ended; 
but, on Judge Ralston asking how he thought Mr. Smith 
could go through the midst of his enemies, without vio- 
lence being used towards him; and, if acquitted, how he 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 119 

was to get back; the governor was evidently at a loss 
what to say, but made light of the matter, as though he 
thought it might be easily done. He took great care to 
state that it was not his advice that Mr. Smith should give 
himself up, but thought it would be soonest decided. It 
appeared evident, by the conversation, that Governor 
Carlin was no friend to the Saints, and they could 
expect no good things from him. He explicitly acknowl- 
edged his ignorance of the law touching the case in 
question. 

After spending the day in conversation and reading, in 
the evening I received a visit from my aunt _ „ , , 

° The Prophet's 

Temperance Mack, and at night went to the Return to His 
city and concluded to tarry at home until 
something further transpired relative to the designs of 
my persecutors. 

Saturday, 20. — Spent the day in my general business 
office, otherwise called the Lodge, or Assembly Room, or 
Council Chamber, which is over my store, and the place 
where most of the business of the city and Church is 
transacted: my health very indifferent. In the evening 
had an interview with my Brother Hyrum, William Law, 
Wilson Law, Newel K. Whitney and George Miller, on 
the illegality of the proceedings of our persecutors. 

Minutes oj the Nauvoo High Council Meeting, August 20th, 1842. 

The High Council, in session, "Resolved that the city of Nauvoo be 
divided into ten [ecclesiastical] wards, according to the division made by 
the temple committee; and that there be a bishop appointed over each 
ward; and also that other bishops be appointed over such districts im- 
mediately out of the city and adjoining thereto as shall be considered 
necessary. Resolved that Samuel H. Smith be appointed bishop in the 
place of Bishop Vinson Knight, deceased; also that Tarleton Lewis be 
appointed bishop of the 4th ward; John Murdock, of the 5th ward; 
Daniel Garn, of the 6th ward; Newel K. Whitney, of the 7th ward; 
Jacob Foutz, of the 8th ward; Jonathan H. Hale, of the 9th ward; 
Hezekiah Peck, of the 10th ward; David Evans, of the district south of 
the city, called the 11th ward; Israel Calkins, of the district east of the 



120 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1842 

city, and south of Knight street; William W. Spencer, of the district 
east of the city and north of Knight street." * 

The city council instructed the sexton to report weekly 
to the editor of some newspaper published in this city, 
the names and ages of persons deceased, and the nature 
of their disease, or cause of their death. 

The Twelve met in council, and ordained Amasa Lyman 
to be one of the Twelve Apostles. Amasa Lyman was 
ordination of born in Lyman, Grafton county, N. H., 30th 
Lyman ^to the March, 1813, where he received the gospel 
Apostieship. through the ministry of Elder Orson Pratt, 
27th April, 1832; ordained an elder under my hands, 23rd 
August, 1832, in Hiram, Portage county, Ohio. He was 
one of my fellow-prisoners, bound with the same chain in 
Richmond jail, Missouri. 

John C. Bennett was declared unworthy to hold the 

, n r, office of chancellor of the University, and was 

John C.Ben- , t 

nett Deposed discharged; and Orson Spencer was elected 

as Chancellor 

ofNauvoo in his stead, and received the oath of office. 
Amasa Lyman was elected regent of the Uni- 
versity, in place of Vinson Knight, deceased. 

* On March 1st, 1842, Nauvoo was divided into four ecclesiastical wards, (Church 
History, Vol. IV, pp. 305-6), and four bishops were set to preside over them, viz.: 
Newel K.Whitney, George Miller, Isaac Higbee, and Vinson Knignt, (See "History 
of the Aaronic Priesthood" — Orson P. Whitney — Contributor, Vol. VI, p. 405). 
There is, however, some uncertainty as to the respective wards over which these 
bishops presided. Previous to this division of Nauvoo into four wards, there 
had been but three wards, known as the middle, upper and lower wards, which 
division was recognized at the October conference held at Commerce (afterwards 
Nauvoo) on the 6th, 7th and 8th of October, 1839. Edward Partridge was made 
bishop of the upper ward; Newel K. Whitney of the middle ward; and Vinson 
Knight of the lower ward, (see History of the' Church. Vol. IV, p. 12). When 
the division of the city into four wards was made on the 1st of March, 1842, Isaac 
Higbee, was made bishop of the 2nd ward (see autobiographical sketch of Isaac 
Higbee in Jeuson's "Biographical Encyclopedia," p. 480). In what wards the other 
bishops presided cannot be determined with certainty. But as matters stood after 
the division of the city into ten wards, with the assignments of the text made — with 
Tarleton Lewi.s as bishop of the 4th ward, and Newel K. Whitney as bishop of the 
7th ward— the bishops of the 1st and 3rd wards would be Samuel H. Smith and 
George Miller, but which presided over the 1st and which over the 3rd cannot be 
ascertained. The reason for mentioning the fact that Newel K. Whitney was bishop 
of the 7th ward, is because in all other publications of the text above, the 7th 
ward and who was bishop of it is omitted. 



A.D. 1842J HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. 121 

This day Sidney Rigdon went to the meeting near the 
Temple, and stated to the congregation, that he was not 
upon the stand to renounce his faith in Mor- Sidney Rig- 
monism, as had been variously stated by ene- affirmation of 
mies aud licentious presses, but appeared to his Faith - 
bear his testimony of its truth, and add another to the 
many miraculous evidences of the power of God; neither 
did he rise to deliver any regular discourse, but to unfold 
to the audience a scene of deep interest which had occurred 
in his own family. He had witnessed many instances of 
the power of God in this Church, but never before had he 
seen the dead raised; yet this was a thing that had actu- 
ally taken place in his own family. 

His daughter Eliza was dead. The doctor told him that 
she was gone; when, after a considerable length of time, 
she rose up in the bed and spoke in a very 
powerful tone to the following effect, in a Experience of 
supernatural manner: — She said to the family 
that she was going to leave them (being impressed' with 
the idea herself that she had only come back to deliver 
her message, and then depart again), saying the Lord had 
said to her the very words she should relate; and so par- 
ticular was she in her relation, that she would not suffer 
any person to leave out a word or add one. She called 
the family around her, and bade them all farewell, with a 
composure and calmness that defies all description, still 
impressed with the idea that she was to go back. 

Up to the time of her death, she expressed a great un- 
willingness to die; but, after her return, she expressed 
equally as strong a desire to go back. She said to her 
elder sister, Nancy, "It is in your heart to deny this work; 
and if you do, the Lord says it will be the damnation of 
your soul." In speaking to her sister Sarah, she said, 
"Sarah, we have but once to die, and I would rather die 
now, than wait for another time." She said to her sisters 
that the Lord had great blessings in store for them, if 



122 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1842 

they continued in the faith ; and after delivering her mes- 
sage, she swooned, but recovered again. 

During this time, she was as cold as she will be when 
laid in the grave; and all the appearance of life was the 
power of speech. She thus continued till the following 
evening, for the space of thirty-six hours, when she called 
her father unto her bed, and said to him that the Lord 
had said to her, if he would cease weeping for his sick 
daughter, and dry up his tears, that he should have all 
the desires of his heart; and that if he would go to bed 
and rest, he should be comforted over his sick daughter, 
for in the morning she should be getting better, and should 
get well: that the Lord had said unto her, because that 
her father had dedicated her to God, and prayed to Him 
for her, that He would restore her back to him again. 

This ceremony of dedicating and praying took place 
when she was struggling in death, and continued to the 
very moment of her departure ; and she says the Lord 
told her that it was because of this that she must go back 
to her father again, though she herself desired to stay. 

She said concerning George W. Robinson, as he had 
denied the faith, the Lord had taken away one of his eye- 
teeth, and unless he repented he would take away 
another; and concerning Dr. Bennett that he was a 
wicked man and that the Lord would tread him under his 
feet. Such is a small portion of what she related. 

Elder Eigdon observed that there had been many idle 
tales and reports abroad concerning him, stating that he 
had denied the faith ; but he would take the 
don^sftu- opportunity to state that his faith was, and 
SePropTeu 5 had been, unshaken in the truth. It has also 
been rumored that I believe that -Joseph 
Smith is a fallen prophet. In regard to this I unequiv- 
ocally state that I never, thought so, but declare that I 
know he is a prophet of the Lord, called and chosen in 
this last dispensation, to roll on the kingdom of God for 
the last time. He closed by saying, as it regards his 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 123 

religion, he had no controversy with the world, having an 
incontrovertible evidence that, through obedience to the 
ordinances of the religion, he now believes the Lord had 
actually given back his daughter from the dead. No 
person need, therefore come to reason with him, to con- 
vince him of error, or make him believe another religion, 
unless those who profess it can show, through obedience 
to its laws, the dead have been, and can be, raised; if it 
has no such power, it would be insulting his feelings to 
ask him to reason about it; and if it had, it would be no 
better than the one he had ; and so he had done with con- 
troversy ; wherefore he dealt in facts and not in theory. 
President Hyrum Smith spoke at great length and with 
great power. He cited Elder Rigdon' s mind 

r i , ii i • • t . t Remarks of 

back to the revelation concerning him, that if Hyrum 
he would move into the midst of the city and 
defend the truth, he should be healed, &c. ; and showed 
that what Elder Rigdon felt in regard to the improvement 
in his health was a fulfillment of the revelation. 

He then proceeded to show the folly of any person's 
attempting to overthrow or destroy Joseph, and read 
from the Book of Mormon in various places concerning 
the Prophet who, it was prophesied, should be raised up 
in the last days, setting forth the work he was destined to 
accomplish, and that he had only just commenced; but 
inasmuch as we could plainly see that the former part of 
the prophecy had been literally fulfilled, we might be as- 
sured that the latter part would also be fulfilled, and that 
Joseph would live to accomplish the great things concern- 
ing him, &c. 

He concluded his address by calling upon the Saints to 
take courage and fear not, and also told Elder 

-r%* -i • Hyrum 

Rigdon that inasmuch as he had seen the smith's Ad- 
mercy of the Lord exerted in his behalf, it 
was his duty to arise and stand in the defense of the 
truth and innocence, and of those who were being perse- 



124 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1842 

cuted innocently; and finally called for all those who were 
willing to support and uphold Joseph, and who believed 
that he was doing his duty and was innocent of the 
charges alleged against him by our enemies, to hold up 
their right hands; when almost every hand was raised and 
no opposite vote was called for. 

The meeting was productive of great good by inspiring 
the Saints with new zeal and courage, and 
the Meet- weakening the hands and hearts of the treach- 

erous, and of evil and designing persons dis- 
posed to secret combinations against the truth. Elder 
Eigdon visited Brother Hyrum in the course of the day, 
and manifested a determination to arouse his energies in 
defense of the truth. 

Tuesday, 22. — I find my feelings of the 16th inst. towards 
my friends revived, *while I contemplate the virtues and the 
good qualities and characteristics of the faithful few, which I 
am now recording in the Book of the Law of the Lord, — of 
such as have stood by me in every hour of peril, for these 

fifteen long years past, — say, for instance, my 
The Prophet's aged and beloved brother, Joseph Knight, 
Joseph Sen., who was among the number of the first 

to administer to my necessities, while I was 
laboring in the commencement of the bringing forth of 
the work of the Lord, and of laying the foundation of the 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For fifteen 
years he has been faithful and true, and even-handed and 
exemplary, and virtuous and kind, never deviating to the 
right hand or to the left. Behold he is a righteous man, 
may God Almighty lengthen out the old man's days; 
and may his trembling, tortured, and broken body be 
renewed, and in the vigor of health turn upon him, if it 
be Thy will, consistently, God; and it shall be said of 
him, by the sons of Zion, while there is one of them re- 

* See closing pages of chapter V. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 125 

maining, that this man was a faithful man in Israel; 
therefore his name shall never be forgotten. 

There are his sons, Newel Knight and Joseph 
Knight, Jun., whose names I record in Ne , w ^ Kni & ht 

o ' » and Joseph 

the Book of the Law of the Lord with Knight, jun 

the Prophet's 

unspeakable delight, for they are my friends. Friends. 

There is a numerous host of faithful souls, whose names 
I could wish to record in the Book of the Law of the 
Lord; but time and chance would fail. I will mention, 
therefore, only a few of them as emblematical mi „ , A , 

' J The Prophet's 

of those who are too numerous to be written. Feelings to- 
But there is one man I would mention, name- porter Rock- 
ly Orrin Porter Rockwell, who is now a fellow- 
wanderer with myself, an exile from his home, because of 
the murderous deeds, and infernal, fiendish dispositions 
of the indefatigable and unrelenting hand of the Missour- 
ians. He is an innocent and a noble boy. May God 
Almighty deliver him from the hands of his pursuers. He 
was an innocent and a noble child and my soill loves him. 
Let this be recorded for ever and ever. Let the bless- 
ings of salvation and honor be his portion. 

But, as I said before, so say I again, while I remember 
the faithful few who are now living, I would remember 
also the faithful of my friends who are dead, for they are 
many ; and many are the acts of kindness — paternal and 
brotherly kindnesses — which they have be- „ n , „ 

J J The Prophet's 

stowed upon me; and since I have been Testimony of 

i i i n J r - • j.i his Father. 

hunted by the Missourians, many are the 
scenes which have been called to my mind. I have remem- 
bered scenes of my childhood. I have thought of my father 
who is dead, who died by disease which was brought upon 
him through suffering by the hands of ruthless mobs. He 
was a great and a good man. The envy of knaves and fools 
was heaped upon him, and this was his lot and portion all 
the days of his life. He was of noble stature and pos- 
sessed a high, and holy, and exalted, and virtuous mind. 
His soul soared above all those mean and groveling prin- 



126 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. fA.D. 1842 

ciples that are so congenial to the human heart. I now 
say that he never did a mean act, that might be said was 
ungenerous in his life, to my knowledge. I love my 
father and his memory ; and the memory of his noble 
deeds rests with ponderous weight upon my mind, and 
many of his kind and parental words to me are written on 
the tablet of my heart. 

Sacred to me are the thoughts which I cherish of the 
history of his life, that have rolled through my mind, 
and nave been implanted there by my own observation, 
since I was born. Sacred to me is his dust, and the 
spot where he is laid. Sacred to me is the tomb I have 
made to encircle o'er his head. Let the memory of my 
father eternally live. Let his soul, or the spirit, my follies 
forgive. With him may I reign one day in the mansions 
above, and tune up the lyre of anthems, of the eternal 
Jove. May the God that I love look down from above 
and save me from my enemies here, and take me by the 
hand that on Mount Zion I may stand, and with my 
father crown me eternally there. 

Words and language are inadequate to express the 
gratitude that 1 owe to God for having given me so hon- 
orable a parentage. 

My mother also is one of the noblest and the best of 
all women. May God grant to prolong her 
Charact^za- 8 da Y s and mine, that we may live to enjoy 
M°oth°er his eac h °th er ' s society long, yet in the enjoy- 
ment of liberty, and to breathe the free air. 

Alvin, ray oldest brother — I remember well the pangs 

of sorrow that swelled my youthful bosom 

Descrip donof and almost burst my tender heart when he 

Aivin!° ther died - He was the oldest and the ablest 
of my father's family. He was one of the 

noblest of the sons of men. Shall his name not be re- 
corded in this book? Yes, Alvin, let it be had here 
and be handed down upon these sacred pages for ever 
and ever. In him there was no guile. He lived without 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 127 

spot from the time he was a child. From the time of his 
birth he never knew mirth. He was candid and sober 
and never would play ; and minded his father and mother 
in toiling all day. He was one of the soberest of men, 
and when he died the angel of the Lord visited him in 
his last moments." 

These childish lines I record in remembrance of my 
childish scenes. 

My brother Don Carlos Smith, whose name I desire to 
record, also was a noble boy; I never knew any fault in 
him; I never saw the first immoral act, or 

i n t • • iT-i- ... The Char- 

the first irreligious or ignoble disposition m acter of Don 

| Jot*] OS 

the child from the time that he was born till 
the time of his death. He was a lovely, a good-natured, a 
kind-hearted and a virtuous and a faithful, upright child; 
and where his soul goes, let mine go also. He lies by the 
side of my father. 

Let my father, Don Carlos and Alvin and children that 
I have buried be brought and laid in the tomb I have built. 
Let my mother and my brethren and my sisters be laid 
there also; and let it be called the tomb of Joseph, a des- 
cendant of Jacob; and when I die let me be gathered to 
the tomb of my father. 

There are many souls whom I have loved stronger than 
death . To them I have proved faithful — to them I am 
determined to prove faithful, until God calls The Prophet's 
me to resign up my breath. Thou, who Pra y er - 
seest and knowest the hearts of all men — Thou eternal, 
omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent Jehovah — God 
— Thou Eloheim, that sittest, as saith the Psalmist, ''en- 
throned in heaven," look down upon Thy servant Joseph 
at this time ; and let faith on the name of Thy Son Jesus 
Christ, to a greater degree than Thy servant ever yet has 
enjoyed, be conferred upon him, even the faith of Elijah; 
and let the lamp of eternal life be lit up in his heart, 
never to be taken away; and let the words of eternal life 
be poured upon the soul of Thy servant, that he may know 



128 HISTOEY OF THE CHCKCH. TA.D. 1842" 

Thy will, Thy statutes, and Thy commandments, and Thy 
judgments, to do them. 

As the dews upon Mount Hermon, may the distillations 
of Thy divine grace, glory, and honor, in the plenitude of 
Thy mercy, and power, and goodness, be poured down 
upon the head of Thy servant. O Lord, God, my heavenly 
Father, shall it be in vain, that Thy servant must needs 
be exiled from the midst of his friends, or be dragged 
from their bosoms, to clank in cold and iron chains; to 
be thrust within the dreary prison walls ; to spend days 
of sorrow, and of grief, and misery there, by the hand of 
an infuriated, incensed, and infatuated foe ; to glut their 
infernal and insatiable desire upon innocent blood ; and 
for no other cause, on the part of Thy servant, than for 
the defense of innocence ; and Thou a just God will not 
hear his cry? Oh, no; Thou wilt hear me — a child of woe, 
pertaining to this mortal life, because of sufferings here, 
but not for condemnation that shall come upon him in 
eternity; for Thou knowest, God, the integrity of his 
heart. Thou hearest me, and I knew that Thou wouldst 
hear me, and mine enemies shall not prevail; they all 
shall melt like wax before Thy face, and, as the mighty 
floods and waters roar, or as the bellowing earthquake's 
devouring gulf, or rolling thunder's loudest peal, or vivid 
forked lightning's flash, or sound of the archangel's 
trump, or voice of the Eternal God, — so shall the souls of my 
enemies be made to feel in an instant, suddenly, and shall 
be taken, and ensnared, and fall backwards, and stumble 
in the ditch they have dug for my feet, and the feet of 
my friends, and perish in their own infamy and shame, 
be thrust down to an eternal hell, for their murderous and 
hellish deeds ! 

I design to renew this subject at a future time. 

Received an interesting visit from mother and aunt 
Temperance Mack. My health and spirits good. 

This afternoon received a few lines from Emma, inform- 
ing me that she would expect me home this evening, be- 



A.D 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 129 

lieving that she could take care of rue better at home than 
elsewhere. Accordingly, soon after dark, I started for 
home, and arrived safe, without being noticed by any 
person. All is quiet in the city. 



9 Vol. v. 



130 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. I A. D. 1842 



CHAPTER VII. 

EFFORTS TO COUNTERACT THE WICKED INFLUENCE OF JOHN C. 
BENNETT — THE PROPHET 'S REAPPEARANCE AMONG THE 
PEOPLE — HIS DISCOURSE AT THE SPECIAL CONFERENCE 
AND BEFORE THE RELIEF SOCIETY AT NAUVOO. 

Wednesday , August 24. —At home all day; received a 
visit from Brothers Newel K. Whitney and Isaac Morley. 

Letter of Governor Carlin to Emma Smith, anent the Prophet's Difficulties 

in Missouri. 

Quincy, August 24, 1842. 
Dear Madam. — Your letter of this date has just been handed to me, 
which recalls to my mind your great solicitude in reference to the 
security and welfare of your husband; but I need not say it recalls to 
my mind the subject matter of your solicitude, because that* subject, 
except at short intervals, has not been absent from my mind. I can 
scarcely furnish you a justifiable apology for delaying a reply so long; 
but, be assured, madam, it is not for want of regard for you and 
your peace of mind that I have postponed,but a crowd of public business 
which has required my whole time, together with very ill bealth, since 
the receipt of your former letter; and it would be most gratifying to my 
feelings now if due regard to publie duty would enable me to furnish 
such a reply as would fully conform to your wishes; but my duty in 
reference to all demands made by executives of other states for the 
surrender of fugitives from justice appears to be plain and simple, con- 
sisting entirely of an executive, and not a judicial character, leaving me 
no discretion or adjudication as to the innocence or guilt of persons so 
demanded and charged with crime; and it is plaiu that the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, in reference to fugitives from justice, 
presumes and contemplates that the laws of the several states are ample 
to do justice to all who may be charged with crime; and the statute of 
this state simply requires, *'That whenever the executive of any other 
state, or of any territory of the United States, shall demand of the 
executive of this state any person as a fugitive from justice, and shall 
have complied with the requisitions of the Act o Congress in that case 



A. D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 131 

made and provided, it shall be the duty of the executive of this state to 
issue his warrant under the seal of the state to apprehend the said fugi- 
tive," &c. 

With the constitution and laws before me, my duty is so plainly 
marked out that it would be 'impossible to err, so long as I abstain 
from usurping the right of adjudication. I am aware that a strict en- 
forcement of the laws by an executive, or a rigid administration of 
them by a judicial tribunal, often results in hardships to those in- 
volved; and to you it doubtless appears peculiarly so, in the present 
case of Mr. Smith. 

If, however, as you allege, he is innocent of any crime, and the pro- 
ceedings are illegal, it would be the more easy for him to procure an 
acquittal. In reference to the remark you attribute to me that I "would 
not advise Mr. Smith ever to trust himself in Missouri," I can only say, 
as I have heretofore said on many occasions, that I never have enter- 
tained a doubt that, if Mr. Smith should submit to the laws of Missouri, 
the utmost latitude would be allowed him in his defense, and the fulhst 
justice done him; and I only intended to refer, (in the remark made to 
you, when at my house) to the rabble, and not to the laws of 
Missouri. 

Very much has been attributed to me, in reference to General Smith, 
that is without foundation in truth; a knowledge of which fact enables 
me to receive what I hear, as coming from him, with great allowance. 

In conclusion, dear madam, I feel conscious when I assure you that 
all my official acts in reference to Mr, Smith have been prompted by a 
strict sense of duty, and in discharge of that duty, have studiously pur- 
sued that course least likely to produce excitement and alarm, both in 
your community and the surrounding public; and I will here acfd that I 
much regret being called upon to act at all and that I hope he will sub- 
mit to the laws and that justice will ultimately be done. 

Be pleased to present my best respects to Mrs. Smith and Miss Snow, 
your companions when at Quincy, and accept of my highest regard for 
yourself and best wishes for your prosperity and happiness. 

Your obedient servant, 

Thos. Carlin. 
To Mrs, Emma Smith: 

Friday, August 26. — At home all day. In the eve- 
ning, in council with some of the Twelve and others. 
I gave some important instructions upon the 
situation of the Church, showing that it was Defense of 
necessary that the officers who could should 
go abroad through the states ; and inasmuch as a great 



132 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 184* 

excitement had been raised, through the community at 
large, by the falsehoods put in circulation by John C. 
Bennett and others, it was wisdom in God that the Elders 
should go forth and deluge the state with a flood of truth, 
setting forth the mean, contemptible persecuting conduct 
of ex-Governor Boggs of Missouri, and those connected 
with him in his mean and corrupt proceedings, in plain 
terms, so that the world might understand the abusive 
conduct of our enemies, and stamp it with indignation. 

I advised the Twelve to call a special conference on 
Monday next to give instructions to the Elders, and call 
upon them to go forth upon this important mission; mean- 
time that all the affidavits concerning Bennett's conduct 
be taken and printed, so that each Elder could be prop- 
erly furnished with correct and weighty testimony to lay 
before the public. 

Great distress prevails in England on account of the 
dull state of trade. 

Saturday, 27. — In the assembly room with some of the 
Twelve and others, who were preparing affidavits for the 
press. 

Emma Smith's Letter to Governor Carlin. — Defense of the Prophet, 
Arraignment of Missouri. 

Nauvoo, August 27, 1842. 
lo his Excellency Governor Carlin: 

Dear Sir: — I received your letter of the 24th in due time, and now 
tender you the sincere gratitude of my heart for the interest which 
you have felt in my peace and prosperty; and I assure you that every 
act of kindness and every word of consolation have been thankfully 
received and duly appreciated by me and my friends also; and I much 
regret your ill health, but still hope that vou will avail yourself of suffi- 
cient time to investigate our cause, and thoroughly acquaint yourself 
with the illegality of the prosecution instituted against Mr. Smith. 
And I now certify that Mr. Smith, myself nor any other person, to my 
knowledge, has ever, nor do we, at tnis time, wish your honor to swerve 
from your duty as an executive in the least. 

But we do believe that it is your duty to allow us, in this place, the 



A.D. 1842| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 133 

privileges and advantages guaranteed to us by the laws of this state and 
the United States. This is all we ask; and if we can enjoy these 
rights unmolested, it will be the ultimate end of all our ambition; and 
the result will be peace and prosperity to us, and all the surrounding 
country, so far as we are concerned. Nor do we wish to take any undue 
advantage of any intricate technicalities of law, but honorably and 
honestly to fulfil all of the laws of this state and of the United States; 
and then, in turn to have the benefits resulting from an honorable exe- 
cution of those laws. 

And now, your excellency will not consider me assuming any unbe- 
coming dictation; but recollect that the many persecutions that have 
been got up unjustly and pursued illegally against Mr. Smith, instigated 
by selfish and irreligious motives, have obliged me to know something 
for myself. Therefore, let me refer you to the eleveuth section of our 
city charter — "All power is granted to the city council to make, ordain, 
establish and execute all ordinances, not repugnant to the 
Constitution of the State, or of the United States, or, as they 
may deem necessary, for the peace and safety of said city." 
Accordingly there is an ordinance passed by the city council to prevent 
our people from being carried off by an illegal process; and if any one 
thinks he is illegally seized, under this ordinance, he claims the 
right of habeas corpus, under section 17 of the charter, to try the ques- 
tion of identity, which is strictly constitutional. 

These powers are positively granted in the charter over your own 
signature. And now, dear sir, where can be the justice in depriving 
us of these rights which are lawfully ours, as well as they are the law- 
ful rights of the inhabitants of Quincy, and Springfield and many other 
places, where the citizens enjoy the advantages of such ordinances 
without controversy? 

With these considerations, and many more which might be adduced, 
give us the privilege, and we will show your honor, and the world 
besides, if required, that the Mr. Smith referred to in the demand 
from Missouri, is not the Joseph Smith of Nauvoo, for he was not in 
Missouri; neither is he described in the writ according as the law 
requires; and that he is not a fugitive from justice. Why, then, be so 
strenuous to have mv husband taken, when you know him to be inno- 
cent of au attempt on the life of Governor Boggs, and that he is not a 
fugutive from justice 1 ? 

It is not the fear of a just decision against him that deters Mr. Smith 
from going into Missouri, but it is an actual knowledge that it was 
never intended he should have a fair trial. 

And now, sir, if you were not aware of the fact, I will acquaint you 
with it now, that there were lying in wait, between this place and War- 



134 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH . IA.I>. 1842 

saw, twelve men from Jackson county, Missouri, for the purpose of 
taking Mr. Smith out of the hands of the officers who might have him 
in custody. Also those two men from Missouri that were here with 
Messrs. King and Pitman divulged the most illegal and infernal calcu- 
lations concerning taking Mr. Smith into Missouri, the evidence of 
which we can furnish you at any time, if required. 

And, dear sir, our good feelings revolt at the suggestion that your 
excellency is acquainted with the unlawful measures taken by those 
engaged in the prosecution — measures, which, if justice was done to 
others, as it would be done to us, were we to commit as great errors in 
our proceedings, would subject all concerned in the prosecution to the 
penalty of the law, and that without mercy. 

I admit, sir, that it is nest to an impossibility for any onn to know 
the extent of the tyranny, treachery and knavery of a great portion of 
the leading characters of the state of Missouri; yet it only requires a 
knowledge of the Constitution of the United States and statutes of the 
state of Missouri, and a knowledge of the outrage committed by some 
of the inhabitants of that state upon the people called ' 'Mormons, ' r 
and that passed unpunished by the administrators of the law, to know 
that there is not the least confidence to be placed in any of those men 
that were engaged in those disgraceful transactions. 

If the law was made for the lawless and disobedient, and punishment 
instituted for the guilty, why not execute the law upon those that have 
transgressed it, and punish those who have committed crime, and grant 
encouragement to the innocent, and liberality to the industrious and 
peaceable? 

And now I entreat your honor to bear with me patiently while I ask 
what good can accrue to this state or the United States, or any part 
of this state, or the United States, or to yourself, or to any other indi- 
vidual, to continue this persecution upon this people, or upon Mr. 
Smith — a persecution that you are well aware, is entirely without any 
just foundation or excuse? 

With sentiments of due respect, I am your most obedient servant, 

Emma Smith. 
Happiness* 

Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the 
end theieof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is vir- 

* It is not positively known what occasioned the writing of this essay; but when 
it is borne in mind that at this time the new law of marriage for the Church — mar- 
riage for eternity, including plurity of wives under some circumstances— was being 
introduced by the Prophet, it is very likely that the article was written with a view 
of applying the principles here expounded to the conditions created by introducing- 
said marriage system. 



A.D. 1842 J HISTOEY OF THE CHUECH. 135 

tue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the command- 
ments of God. But we cannot keep all the commandments without 
first knowing them, and we cannot expect to know all, or more than we 
now know unless we comply with or keep those we have already 
received. That which is wrong under one circumstance, may be, and 
often is, right under another. 

^Gpd said, "Thou shalt not kill;" at another time He said "Thou 
shalt utterly destroy." This is the principle on which the government 
of heaveu is conducted — by revelation adapted to the circumstances in 
which the children of the kingdom are placed. Whatever God requires 
is right, no matter what it is, although we may not see the reason 
thereof till long after the events transpire. If we seek first the king- 
dom of God, all good things will be added. So with Solomon: first he 
asked wisdom, and God gave it him, and with it every desire of his 
heart, even things which might be considered abominable to all who 
understand the order of heaven only in part, but which in reality were 
right because God gave and sanctioned by special revelation^ 

A parent may whip a child, and justly, too, because he stole an 
apple; whereas if the child had asked for the apple, and the parent had 
given it, the child would have eaten it with a better appetite; there 
would have been no stripes; all the pleasure of the apple would have 
been secured, all the misery of stealing lost. 

This principle will justly apply to all of God's dealings with His chil- 
dren. Everything that God gives us is lawful and right; and it is 
proper that we should enjoy His gifts and blessings whenever and 
wherever He is disposed to bestow; but if we should seize upon those 
same blessings and enjoj^ments without law, without revelation, with- 
out conmandment, those blessings and enjoyments would prove curs- 
ings and vexations in the end, and we should have to lie down in sor- 
row and wailings of everlasting regret. But in obedience there is joy 
and peace unspotted, unalloyed; and as God has designed our happi- 
ness — and the happiness of all His creatures, he never has — He n^ver - 
will institute an ordinance or give a commandment to His people thafis 
not calculated in its nature to promote that happiness which He has 
designed, and which will not end in the greatest amount of good and 
glory to those who become the recipients of his law and ordinances^ 
Blessings offered, but rejected, are no longer blessings, but become like 
the talent hid in the earth by the wicked and slothful servant; the 
proffered good returns to the giver; the blessing is bestowed on those 
who will receive and occupy; for unto him that hath shall be given, 
and he shall have abundantly, but unto him that hath not or will not 
receive, shall be taken away that which he hath, or might have 
had. 



136 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. I A. D. 1842 

Be wise today; 'tis madness to defer: 
Next day the fatal precedent may plead. 
Thus on till wisdom is pushed out of time 
Into eternity. 

Our heavenly Father is more liberal in His views, and boundless in His 
mercies and blessings, than we are ready to believe or receive; and, at 
the same time, is more terrible to the workers of iniquity, more awful 
*n the executions of His punishments, and more ready to detect every 
false way, than we are apt to suppose Him to be. He will be inquired 
of by His children. He says: "Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye 
shall find;" but, if you will take that which is not your own, or which I 
have not given you, you shall be rewarded according to your deeds; but 
no good thing will I withhold from them who wa'k uprightly before me, 
and do my will in all things — who will listen to my voice and to the 
voice of my servant whom I have sent; for I delight in those who seek 
diligently, to know my precepts, and abide by the law of my kingdom; 
for all things shall be made known unto them in mine own due time, 
and in the end they shall have joy. 

Sunday , 28. — At home. James Whitehead, Peter Mel- 
ling, Tarleton Lewis, and Ezra Strong were received into 
the High Priests' quorum at Nauvoo. 

The British convict ship, Waterloo, was wrecked at 
Cape Town, during a gale. Two hundred lives lost. 

Monday, 29 — 

Minutes of a Special Conference, held at Nauvoo. 

This being the day appointed for the conference referred to on the 
26th instant, the elders assembled in the Grove near the Temple. Abo^t 
10 o'clock in the forenoon, President Hyrum Smith introduced the 
object of the conference by stating that the people abroad had been 
excited by John C. Bennett's false statements, and that letters had 
frequently been received inquiring concerning the true nature of said 
reports; in consequence of which it is thought wisdom in God that every 
elder who can, should go forth to every part of the United States, and 
take proper documents with them, setting forth the truth as it is, and 
also preach the gospel, repentance, baptism, and salvation, and tarry 
preaching until they shall be called home. They must go wisely, 
humbly setting forth the truth as it is in God, and our persecutions, by 
which the tide of public opinion will be turned. There are many elders 
here doing little, and many people in the world who want to hear the 
truth. We want the official members to take their staff and go east 



A.D. 1842| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 137 

(not west) ; and if a mob should come here, they will only have women 
and children to fight with. When you raise churches, send the means 
you get to build the Temple, and get the people to take stock in the 
Nauvoo House. It is important that the Nauvoo House should be 
finished, that we may have a suitable place wherein to entertain the 
srreat ones of the earth, and teach them the truth. We want the Temple 
built, that we may offer our oblations, and where we can ask forgive- 
ness of our sins every week, and forgive one another, and offer up our 
offering, and get our endowment. The gospel will be turned from the 
Gentiles to the Jews. Sometime ago, almost every person was ordained, 
the purpose was to have you tried and ready to receive your blessings. 
Every one is wanted to be ready in two or three days, and I expect 
there will be a liberal turn out. 

Near the close of Hyrum's remarks, I went upon the 
stand. I was rejoiced to look upon the Saints once more, 
whom 1 have not seen for about three weeks. 
They also were rejoiced to see me, and we all Prophettotke 
rejoiced together. My sudden appearance on 
the stand, under the circumstances which surrounded us, 
caused great animation and cheerfulness in the assembly. 
Some had supposed that I had gone to Washington, and 
some that I had gone to Europe, while some thought I 
was in the city ; but whatever difference of opinion had 
prevailed on this point, we were now all filled with thanks- 
giving and rejoicing. 

When Hyrum had done speaking, I arose and congrat- 
ulated the brethren and sisters on the victory I had once 
more gained over the Missourians. I had told them 
formerly about fighting the Missourians, and about fight- 
ing alone. I had not fought them with the sword, or by 
carnal weapons; I had done it by stratagem, by outwitting 
them; and there had been no lives lost, and there would 
be no lives lost, if they would hearken to my counsel. 

Up to this day God had given me wisdom to save the 
people who took counsel. None had ever been killed who 
abode by my counsel. At Hauns' Mill the brethren went 
contrary to my counsel; if they had not, their lives would 
have been spared. 



138 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

I had been in Nauvoo all the while, and outwitted Ben 
nett's associates, and attended to my own business in the 
city all the time. We want to whip the world 
we e ap o a nsof mentally, and they will whip themselves phys- 
ically. The brethren cannot have the tricks 
played upon them that were played at Kirtland and Far 
West. They have seen enough of the tricks of their ene- 
mies, and know better. Orson Pratt has attempted to 
destroy himself, and caused almost all the city to go in 
search of him. Is it not enough to put down all the in- 
fernal influences of the devil, what we have felt and seen, 
handled and evidenced, of this work of God? But the 
devil had influence among the Jews, after all the great 
things they had witnessed, to cause the death of J esus 
Christ, by hanging Him between heaven and earth. They 
would deliver me up, Judas like; but a small band of us 
shall overcome. 

We don't want or mean to fight with the sword of the 
flesh, but we will fight with the broad sword of the Spirit. 
Our enemies say our charter and writs of habeas corpus 
are worth nothing. We say they came from the highest 
authority in the state, and we will hold to them. They 
cannot be disannulled or taken away. 

I then told the brethren I was going to send all the 
elders away, and when the mob came there would only be 
women and children to fight, and they would 
pian of be ashamed. I don't want you to fight, but 

go and gather tens, hundreds, and thousands 
to fight for you. If oppression comes, I will then show 
them that there is a Moses and a Joshua amongst us ; and 
I will fight them, if they don't take off oppression from 
me. I will do as I have. done this time, I will run into 
the woods, I will fight them in my own way. I will send 
Brother Hyrum to call conferences everywhere through- 
out the states, and let documents be taken along and show 
to the world the corrupt and oppressive conduct of Boggs, 



A l>. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 139 

Carlin, and others, that the public may have the truth 
laid before them. 

Let the Twelve send all who will support the character 
of the Prophet, the Lord's anointed; and if all who go 
will support my character, I prophesy in the name of the 
Lord Jesus, whose servant I am, that you will prosper in 
your missions. I have the whole plan of the kingdom be- 
fore me, and no other person has. And as to all thatT 
Orson Pratt, Sidney Rigdon, or George W. Robinson can 
do to prevent me, I can kick them off my heels, as many 
as you can name; I know what will become of them. 

I concluded my remarks by saying I have the best of 
feelings towards my brethren, since this trouble began; 
but to the apostates and enemies, I will give a lashing 
every opportunity, and I will curse them. 

During the address, an indescribable transport of good 
feeling was manifested by the assembly, and about 380 
elders volunteeied to go immediately on the proposed 
mission. 

Treaty signed between Great Britain and China,' Chinese 
to pay $31,000,000, throw open five ports for trade, and 
cede Hong Kong to Great Britain. 

Tuesday, 30. — At home through the day. 

Wednesday, 31. — At home in the forenoon; afternoon 
rode to the Grove with Emma, and attended the Female 
Relief Society's meeting. 

The following minutes were reported by Miss E. R. 
Snow : — 

Minutes of the Female Belief Society' 1 s Meeting — Remarks of the Prophet, 

President Joseph Smith arose and said, "I am happy and thankful 
for the privilege of being present on this occasion. Great exertions 
have been made on the part of our enemies to carry me to Missouri and 
destroy my life; but the Lord has hedged up their way, and they have 
not, as yet, accomplished their purpose. God has enabled me to keep 
out of their hands. I have warred a good warfare, insomuch as I have 
out-generalled or whipped out all Bennett's corrupt host. 

My feeliugs at the present time are that, inasmuch as the Lord Al- 



140 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

mighty has preserved me until today, He will continue to preserve me, 
by the united faith and prayers of the Saints, until I have fully accom- 
plished my mission in this life, and so firmly established the dispensa- 
tion of the fullness of the priesthood in the last days, that all the powers 
of earth and hell can never prevail against it. 

This constant persecution reminds me of the words of the Savior, 
when He said to the Pharisees, "Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast 
out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall 
be perfected." I suspect that my Heavenly Father has decreed that 
the Missourians shall not get me into their power; if they do, it will be 
because I do not keep out of their way. 

I shall triumph over my enemies: I have begun to triumph over them 
at home, and I shall do it abroad. All those that rise up against me 
will surely feel the weight of their iniquity upon their own heads. 
Those that speak evil of me and the Saints are ignorant or abominable 
characters, and full of iniquity. All the fuss, and all the stir, and all 
the charges got up against me are like the jack-a-lantem, which cannot 
be found. 

Although I do wrong, I do not the wrongs that I am charged with 
doing: the wrong that I do is through the frailty of human nature, like 
other men. No man lives without fault. Do you think that even Jesus, 
if He were here, would be without fault in your eyes? His enemies said 
all manner of evil against Him — they all watched for iniquity in Him. 
How easy it was for Jesus to call out all the iniquity of the hearts of 
those whom He was among! 

The servants of the Lord are required to guard against those things 
that are calculated to do the most evil. The little foxes spoil the vines 
— little evils do the most injary to the Church. If you have evil feel- 
ings, and speak of them to one another, it has a tendency to do mis- 
chief. These things result in those evils which are calculated to cut the 
throats of the heads of the Church. 

When I do the best I can — when I am accomplishing the greatest 
good, then the most evils and wicked surmisings are got up against me. 
I would to God that you would be wise. I now counsel you, that if you 
know anything calculated to disturb the peace or injure the feelings of 
your brother or sister, hold your tongues, and the least harm will be 
done. 

The Female Relief Society have taken a most active part in my wel- 
fare against my enemies, in petitioning to the governor in my behalf. 
These measures were all necessary. Do you not see that I foresaw what 
was coming, beforehand, by the spirit of prophecy? All these move- 
ments had an influence in my redemption from the hand of my enemies. 
If these measures had not been taken, more serious consequences would 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 141 

have resulted. I have come here to bless you. The Society have done 
well: their principles are to practice holiness. God loves you, and your 
prayers in my behalf shall avail much: let them not cease to ascend to 
God continually in my behalf. The enemies of this people will never 
get weary of their persecution against the Church, until they are over- 
come. I expect they will array everything against me that is in their 
power to control, and that we shall have a long and tremendous war- 
fare. He that will war the true Christian warfare against the corrup 
tions of these last days will have wicked men and angels of devils, and 
all the infernal powers of darkness continually arrayed against him. 
When wicked and corrupt men oppose, it is a criterion to judge if a 
man is warring the Christian warfare. When all men speak evil of you 
alsely, blessed are ye, &c. Shall a man be considered bad, when men 
speak evil of him? No. If a man stands and opposes the world of sin? 
he may expect to have all wicked and corrupt spirits arrayed against 
him. But it will be but a little season, and all these afflictions will be 
turned away from us, inasmuch as we are faithful, and are not over- 
come by these evils. By seeing the blessings of the endowment rolling 
on, and the kingdom increasing and spreading from sea to sea, we shall 
rejoice that we were not overcome by these foolish things. 

A few very important things have been manifested to me in my ab- 
sence respecting the doctrine of baptism for the death, which I shall 
communicate to the Saints next Sabbath, if nothing should* occur to 
prevent me. 

President Smith then addressed the throne of grace in fervent prayer. 
The prayers of the society were requested in behalf of Mr. Repshaw. 

President Joseph Smith remarked that Mrs. Repshaw had long since 
been advised to return to her husband. It has been ascertained, by 
good evidence, that she left her husband without just cause — that he is 
a moral man and a gentleman. She has got into a way of having 
revelations, but not the revelations of God. If she will go home and 
do her duty, we will pray for her; but, if not, our prayers will do her 
no good. 

President Smith said, "I have one remark to make respecting the 
baptism for the dead to suffice for the time being, until I have op- 
portunity to discuss the subject at greater length — all persons baptized 
for the dead must have a recorder present, that he may be an eyewit- 
ness to record and testify of the truth and validity of his record. It 
will be necessary, in the Grand Council, that these things be testified to 
by competent witnesses. Therefore let the recording and witnessing of 
baptisms for the dead be carefully attended to from this time forth. 
If there is any lack, it may be at the expense of our friends; they may 
not come forth." 

Closed with prayer by Elder Derby. 



142 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. 1842 



CHAPTER VIII. 

INSTRUCTIONS ON BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD — CORRESPONDENCE 
BETWEEN EMMA SMITH AND GOVERNOR CARLIN — THE 
PROPHET'S FIRST LETTER TO JAMES ARLINGTON BEN- 
NETT. 

Some time this month [August, 1842] Elder Hyde pub- 
Hyde's lished a pamphlet in the German language, 
pamphlet. j n Germay, entitled "A Cry out of the Wild- 
ness," &c, of about 120 pages, setting forth the rise, 
progress and doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter-day Saints. 

About this time, while I was crossing from Montrose to 
Nauvoo in a boat in company with Brother Hyrum, we 
passed through an immense shoal of fish of considerable 
size. Hundreds jumped in and over the boat; but we 
succeeded in catching about sixteen, which we brought to 
shore. 

Thursday , September 1, 1842.— During the forenoon in 
the Assembly Eoom, and in the afternoon at home, 
attending to business. wrote the following: 

A Letter jrom the Prophet to the Saints at Nauvoo — Directions on 
Baptism for the Dead* 

To all the Saints in Nauvoo. — Forasmuch as the Lord has revealed 
unto me that my enemies, both in Missouri and this state, were again 
in the pursuit of me; and inasmuch as they pursue me without a cause, 
and have not the least shadow or coloring 1 of justice or right on their 
side, in the getting up of their prosecutions against me; and inasmuch 
as their pretensions are all founded in falsehood of the blackest dye, I 
have thought it expedient and wisdom in me to leave the place for a 
short season, for my own safety and the safety of this people. 

I would say to all those with whom I have business, that I have left 
my affairs with agents and clerks, who will transact all business in a 

* See Doc. and Gov. cxxvii. See also Times and Seasons vol. Ill, page 919. 



A.D. 1842J HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 143 

prompt and proper manner, and will see that all my debts are cancelled 
in due time, by turning out property, or otherwise, as the case may 
require, or as the circumstances may admit of. When I learn that the 
storm is fully blown over, then I will return to you again. 

2. And as for the perils which I am called to pass through, they 
seem but a small thing to me, as the envy and wrath of man have been 
my common lot all the days of my life; and for what cause it seems 
mysterious, unless I was ordained from before the foundation of the 
world, for some good end, or bad, as you may choose to call it. Judge 
ye for yourselves, God knoweth all these things, whether it be good or 
bad. 

But, nevertheless, deep water is what I am wont to swim in; it all has 
become second nature to me. And I feel, like Paul, to glory in tribu- 
lation: for to this day has the God of my fathers delivered me out o^ 
them all, and will deliver me from henceforth; for behold, and lo, I 
shall triumph overall my enemies, for the Lord God hath spoken it. 

3. Let all the Saints rejoice, therefore, and be exceedingly glad, for 
Israel's God is their God; and he will mete out a just recompense of 
reward upon the heads of all your oppressors. 

4. And again, verily, thus saith the Lord, let the work of my Tem- 
ple, and all the works which I have appointed unto you, be continued 
on and not cease; and let your diligence and your perseverance, and 
patience, and your works be redoubled; and you shall in no wise lose 
your reward, saith the Lord of Hosts; and if they persecute you, so 
persecuted they the prophets and righteous men that were before you. 
For all this there is a reward in heaven. 

5. And again I give unto you a word in relation to the baptism for 
your dead. 

6. Verily thus saith the Lord unto you concerning your dead: 
when any of you are;baptized for your dead, let there be a 
recorder; and let him be eyewitness of your baptisms; let him hear 
with his ears, that he may testify of a truth, saith the Lord. 

7. That in all your recordings it may be recorded in heaven; whatso- 
ever you bind on earth may be bound in heaven; whateyeryou loose on 
earth shall be loosed in heaven. 

8. For I am about to restore many things to the earth pertaining to 
the Priesthood, saith the Lord of Hosts. 

9. And again, let all the records be had in order, that they may be 
put in the archives of my Holy Temple, to be held in remembrance 
from generation to generation, saith the Lord of Hosts. 

10. I will say to all the Saints, that I desired with exceedingly great 
desire to have addressed them from the stand on the subject of baptism 
for the dead, on the following Sabbath. But inasmuch as it is out of 



144 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1842 

my power to do so, I will write the word of the Lord from time to time, 
on that subject aud send it you by mail, as well as many other things. 

11. And now I close my letter for the present, for the want of more 
time; for the enemy is on the alert; and, as the Savior said, the prince 
of this world cometh, but he hath nothing in me. 

12. Behold my prayer to God is, that you all may be saved: and I 
subscribe myself your servant in the Lord, Prophet and Seer of the 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Joseph Smith, 

The following is from the Times mid Seasons of Sep- 
tember 1st. 

Excerpt from a Communication from William Law, 

Let none suppose that God is angry with His Saints because He suffers 
the hand of persecution to come upon them. He chasteneth those whom 
He loveth, and trieth and proveth every son and daughter, that they 
may be as gold seven times purified. Rejoice then, ye Saints of the 
Most High; for the God of Abraham is your God, and He will deliver 
you from all your enemies. Seek diligently to know His will, and 
observe to do it. Be zealous in the cause of truth, in building up the 
kingdom of Christ upon the earth, in rearing up the Temple of God at 
Nauvuo, and in all works of righteousness. And say not "The Lord 
delayeth His coming;' ' for behold the day draweth near; the hour 
approacheth; be ye ready. 

Be virtuous, be just, be honorable, be full of faith, love and charity; 
pray much and be patient; wait a little season and the voice of God shall 
thunder from the heavens His voice shall be very terrible; then the 
wicked shall tremble and fall back; they shall be taken in their own 
snares, and fall into the pit that they have digged for others; but 
the just shall live by faith, and shall shine forth as the stars in the 
firmament; their glory shall be as the brightness of the sun; for they 
are God's. 

William Law. 

Friday, 2. — Spent the day at home. A report reached 
the city this afternoon that the sheriff was on his way to 
Nauvoo with an armed force. 

Saturday, 3. — In the morning at home, in company 
with John F. Boynton.* 

* John F. Boynton, as will be remembered, was at one time a member of the 
quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the Kirtland period of Church history; see Vol. 
II, pp. 187 and 191. 



A.D. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 145 

[Under this date, the Prophet's secretary wrote the 
following:] 

An Attempt to Arrest the Prophet. 

A letter was received from Brother HolHster to the effect that theMis- 
sourians were again on the move, and that two requisitions were issued, 
one on the governor of this state, and the other on the governor of Iowa. 
Their movements were represented as being very secret and resolute. 
Soon after 12 o'clock, Pitman, the deputy sheriff, and two other men 
came into the house. It appears that they had come up the riverside, 
and hitched their horses below the Nauvoo House, and then proceeded 
on foot undiscovered, until they got into the house. When they 
arrived, President Joseph Smith was in another apartment 
of the house, eating dinner with his family. John Boynton happened 
to be the first person discovered by the sheriffs, and they began to ask 
him where Mr. Smith was. He answered ,that he saw him early in the 
morning; but did not say that he had seen him since. 

While this conversation was going on, President Joseph Smith passed 
out of the back door, and through the corn in his garden to Brother 
Newel K. Whitney's. He went up stairs undiscovered. Meantime 
Sister Emma went and conversed with the sheriffs. Pitman said he 
wanted to search the house for Mr. Smith. In answer to a question by 
Sister Emma, he said he had no warrant authorizing him to search, but 
insisted upon searching the house. She did not refuse, and accordingly 
they searched through, but to no effect. 

This is another testimony and evidence of the mean, corrupt, illegal 
proceedings of our enemies, notwithstanding the Constitution of the_ 
United States says, Article 4th, "The right of the people to be secure 
in their persons, houses, papeis and effects against unreasonable 
searches and seizures shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue j 
but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particu-, 
arly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to\ 
be seized." 

Yet these men audaciously, impudently and altogether illegally 
searched the house of President Joseph Smith even without 
any warrant or authority whatever. Being satisfied that he 

was not in the house, they departed. They appeared to be well armed, 
and no doubt intended to take him either dead or alive; which we after- 
wards heard they had said they would do; but the Almighty 
again delivered His servant from their bloodthirsty grasp. 

It is rumored that there are fifteen men in the city along with the 
sheriffs, and that they dined together today at Amos Davis's. Soon after 
sundown, Thomas King and another person arrived at the house and 

10 Vol. V. 



146 HISTOKY OF 1'HE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

demanded to search, which they immediately did; but, finding nothing 
they also went towards Davis's. Some of them were seen about after- 
wards; but at about ten o'clock all was quiet. 

It is said that they started from Quincy yesterday, expecting and 
fully determined to reach Nauvoo in the nierht, and fall upon the house 
unawares; but report says they lost the road, and got scattered away 
one from another, and could not get along until daylight. This, in all 
probability, is true, as they appeared much fatigued, and complained 
of being weary aud sore from riding. 

President Smith, accompanied by Brother Erastus Derby, left 
Brother Whitney's about nine o'clock, and went to Brother Edward 
Hunter's, where he was welcomed, and made comfortable by the fam- 
ily, and where he can be kept safe from the hands of his enemies. 

Sunday, 4. — Ryrum Smith and William Law left for 
the Eastern States. 

Monday, 5. — The sisters wrote as follows: 

Petition of the Female Relief Society to Governor Carlin. 
Jo his Excellency Thomas Carlin, Governor of the State of Illinois: 

We, the undersigned members of the Nauvoo Relief Society, and 
Ladies of Nauvoo, hearing many reports concerning mobs, threats of 
extermination, aud other excitement, set on foot by John C. Bennett, 
calculated to disturb the peace, happiness and well-being of this com- 
munity, have taken the liberty to petition your Excellency for pro- 
tection. 

It may be considered irrelevant for ladies to petition your Excellency 
on the above-named subject, and may be thought by you, Sir, to be 
officious, and that it would be more becoming for our husbands, fath- 
ers, brothers and sons to engage in this work, and in our defense. 
This, Sir, we will admit, in ordinary cases is right, and that it would be 
more consistent with the delicacy of the female character to be silent; 
but on occasions like the present, our desires for the peace of society, 
the happiness of our friends, the desire to save the lives of our hus- 
bands, our fathers, our brothers, our children, and our own lives, will 
be a sufiicient palliation, in the estimation of your Excellency, for the 
step we have taken in presenting this petition, in support of the 
one already sent your Excellency by the male inhabitants of this city. 

We would respectfully represent to your Excellency that we have 
not yet forgotten the scenes of grief, misery and woe that we had to 
experience from the hands of ruthless and bloodthirsty mobs in the 
state of Missouri. The cup of misery was prepared by lying, slander 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 147 

and misrepresentation. It was wrung: out and filled by tyranny and 
oppression, and by a ruthless, inhuman mob. We had to drink it to 
the dregs. 

Your Excellency will bear with us if we remind you of the cold- 
blooded atrocities that we witnessed in that state. Our bosoms heave 
with horror, our eyes are dim, our knees tremble, our hearts are faint, 
when we think of their horrid deeds; and if the petitions of our hus- 
bands, brothers, fathers, and sons will not answer with your Excel- 
lency, we beseech you to remember that of their wives, mothers, sisters 
and daughters. Let the voice of injured innocence in Missouri speak; 
let the blood of our fathers, our brothers, our sons and our daughters 
speak; let the tears of the widows and orphans, the maimed and im- 
poverished speak; and let the injuries sustained by fifteen thousand 
innocent, robbed, spoiled, persecuted, and injured people speak; let 
the tale of woe be told; [let it be told without embellishment, prejudice or 
color; and we are persuaded there is no heart but will be softened, no 
feelings but will be affected, and no person, but will flee to our relief. 

Far be it from us to accuse your Excellency of obduracy or injustice. 
We believe you to be a humane, feeling, benevolent and patriotic man; 
and therefore we appeal to you. 

Concerning John C. Bennett who is trying with other political dema- 
gogues, to disturb our peace, we believe him to be an unvirtuous man 
and a most consummate scoundrel, a stirrer up of sedition, and a vile 
wretch unworthy the attention or notice of any virtuous man; and his 
published statements concerning Joseph Smith are bare-faced, 
unblushing falsehoods. 

We would further recommend to your Excellency, concerning Joseph 
Smith, that we have the utmost confidence in him, as being a man of 
integrity, honesty, truth, and patriotism. We have never, either in 
public or private, heard him teach any principles but the principles of 
virtue and righteousness. And so we have knowledge, and we know 
him to be a pure, chaste, virtuous and godly man. 

Under these circumstances, we would petition your Excellency to 
exert your privilege in an official capacity, and not to suffer him 
(should he be demanded) to go into the state of Missouri; for we 
know that, if he should, it would be the delivering up the innocent to 
be murdered. We would represent to your Excellency that we are a 
law-abiding people, a virtuous people, and we would respectfully 
refer your Excellency to the official documents of the state during our 
three years' residence in it, in proof of this. If we transgress laws, we 
are willing to be tried by those laws, but we dread mobs, we dread 
illegal process; we dread fermentation, calumny and lies, knowing that 
our. difficulties in Missouri first commenced with these. things. 



148 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

We pray that we may not be delivered into the hands of mobs, or 
subjected to illegal proceedings of the militia, but that we may have the 
privilege of self-defense, in case of attack, without having to contend 
with legalized mobs as in Missouri; and we therefore appeal to the honor, 
philanthropy, justice, benevolence and patriotism of your Excellency, to 
afford us all legal protection and to grant us our request; and we, as in 
duty bound, will ever pray. 

Tuesday, September 6, 1842.— I wrote as follows: 

Letter of the Prophet to the Church — Further Directions on Baptism 
for the Dead* 

Nauvuo, September 6, 1842. 

To the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, greeting: — 

1. As I stated to you in my letter, before I left my place, that I would 
write to you from time to time, and give you information in relation to 
many subjects, I now resume the subject of the baptism for the dead, 
as that subject seems to occupy my mind, and press itself upon my feel- 
ings the strongest, since I have been pursued by my enemies. 

2. I wrote a few words of revelation to you concerning a recorder. I 
have had a few additional views in relation to this matter, which I now 
certify. That is, it was declared in my former letter that there should 
be a recorder who should be eye-witness, and also to hear with his ears, 
that he might make a record of a truth before the Lord. 

3. Now, in relation to this matter, it would be very difficult for one 
recorder to be present at all times, and to do all the business. To obvi- 
ate this difficulty, there can be a recorder appointed in each ward of the * 
city, who is well qualified for taking accurate minutes; and let him be 
very particular and precise in taking the whole proceedings, certifying 
in his record that he saw with his eyes and heard with his ears, giving 
the date, and names, &c, and the history of the whole transaction; 
naming also, some three individuals that are present, if there be any 
present, who can at any time, when calledupou, certify to the same, that 
in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 

4. Then let there be a general recorder, to whom these other records 
can be handed, being attended with certificates over their own signa- 
tures, certifying that the record they have made is true. Then the general 
church recorder can enter the record on the general church book, 
with the certificates and all the attending witnesses, with his own state, 
ment that he verily believes the above statement and records to be true, 
from his knowledge of the general character and appointment of those 

* See Doc. and Cov. sec. cxxviii. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 149 

men by the Church. And when this is done on the general church 
book, the record shall be just as holy, and shall answer the ordinance 
just the same as if he had seen with his eyes, and heard with his"ears, 
and made a record of the same on the general church book. 

5. You may think this order of things to be very particular; Jbut let 
me tell you that it is only to answer the will of God, by conforming to 
the ordinance and preparation that the Lord ordained and prepared be- 
fore the foundation of the world, for the salvation of the dead who 
should die without a knowledge of the gospel. 

6. And further, I want you to remember that John the Revelator was 
contemplating this very subject in relation to the dead, when he de- 
clared, as you will find recorded in Revelation xx, 12: "And I saw the 
dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened; 
and another book was opened, which was the book of life; and the dead 
were judged out of those things which were written in the books, ac- 
cording to their works." 

7. You will discover, in this quotation, that the books were opened; 
and another book was opened, which was the book of life; but the dead 
were judged out of those things which were written in the books; ac- 
cording to their works: consequently, the books spoken of must be the 
books which contained the record of their works; and refer to the 
records which are kept on the earth. And the book which was the book 
of life is the record which is kept in heaven; the principle agreeing pre- 
cisely with the doctrine which is commanded you in the revelation con- 
tained in the letter which I wrote to you previously to my leaving my 
place, that in all your recordings it may be recorded in heaven. 

8. Now, the nature of this ordinance consists in the power of the 
priesthood, by the revelation of Jesus Christ; wherein it is granted 
that whatsoever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and what- 
soever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Or in other words, 
taking a different view of the translation, whatsoever you record on 
earth shall be recorded in heaven, and whatsoever you do not record on 
earth shall not be recorded in heaven; for out of the books shall your 
dead be judged, according to their own works, whether they themselves 
have attended to the ordinances in their own propria persona or by the 
means of their own agents, according to the ordinance which God has 
prepared for their salvation from before the foundation of the world, 
according to the records which they have kept concerning their dead. 

9. It may seem to some to be a very bold doctrine that we talk of — a 
power which records or binds on earth, and binds in heaven: neverthe- 
less, in all ages of the world, whenever the Lord has given a dispensa- 
tion of the priesthood to any man by actual revelation, or any set of 
men, this power has always been given. Hence, whatsoever those men 



150 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

did in authority, in the name of the Lord, and did it truly and faith- 
fully, and kept a proper and faithful record of the same, it became a 
law on earth and in heaven, and could not be annulled, according to the 
decrees of the great Jehovah. This is a faithful saying — who can 
hear it? 

10. And again, for a precedent, Matthew xvi: 18, 19. "And I also 
say unto thee, that thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my 
church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it: and I will give 
unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt 
bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt loose 
on earth shall be loosed in heaven. n 

11. Now the great and grand secret of the whole matter, and the sum- 
mum bonum of the whole subject that is lying before us, consists in ob- 
taining the powers of the holy priesthood; for him to whom these keys 
are given, there is no difficulty in obtaining a knowledge of facts in 
relation to the salvation of the children of men, both as well for the 
dead as for the living. 

12. Herein is glory, and honor, and immortality, and eternal life: 
The 'ordinance of baptism by water, to be immersed therein in order to 
answer to the likeness of the dead, that one principle might. accord with 
the other. To be immersed in the water and come forth out of the 
water is in the likeness of the resurrection of the dead, in coming forth 
out of their graves. Hence, this ordinance was instituted to form a re- 
lationship with the ordinance of baptism for the dead, being in likeness 
of the dead. 

13. Consequently, the baptismal font was instituted as a simile of the 
grave, and was commanded to be in a place underneath where the living 
are wont to assemble, to show forth the living and the dead, and that 
all things may have their likeness, and that they may accord one with 
another, — that which is earthly conforming to that which is heavenly, 
as Paul hath declared, I Cor, xv: 46, 47, and 48. 

14. "Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is 
natural, and afterwards that which is spiritual. The first man is of the 
earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the 
earthy, such are they also that are earthy; and as is the heavenly, such 
are they also that are heavenly. " And as are the records on the earth 
in relation to your dead, which are truly made out, so also are the 
records in heaven. This, therefore, is the sealing and binding power, 
and, in one sense of the word, the keys of the kingdom, which consist 
in the key of knowledge. 

15. And now, my dearly beloved brethren and sisters, let me assure 
you that these are principles, in relation to the dead and the living, that 
cannot be lightly passed over, as pertaining to our salvation. For their 



A.D 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 151 

salvation is necessary and essential to our salvation, as Paul says con- 
cerning the fathers, "that they without us cannot be made perfect;" 
neither can we without our dead be made perfect. 

16. And now, in relation to the baptism for the dead, I will give you 
anotner quotation of Paul, I Corinthians xv: 29: "Else what shall 
they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why 
are tbev theu baptized for the dead?" 

17. /And again, in conuection with this quotation, I will give you a 
quotation from one of the prophets, who had his eye fixed on the res- 
toration of the priesthood, the glories to be revealed in the last days, and 
in an especial manner this most glorious of all subjects belonging to the 
everlasting gospel, viz., the baptism for the dead; for Malachi says, 
last chapter, verses 5th and 6th, * 'Behold I will send you Elijah the 
prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord; 
and he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart 
of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a 
curse /Q 

18. I might have rendered a plainer translation to this, but it is suf- 
ficiently plain to suit my purpose as it stands. It is sufiicient to know, 
in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse, unless there is 
a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the chil- 
dren, upon some subject or other: and behold, what is that subject? It 
is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made per- 
fect; neither can they without us be made perfect. Neither can they 
nor we be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also; 
for it is necessary, in the ushering in of the dispensation of the fullness 
of times, which dispensation is now beginning to usher in, that a whole 
and complete, and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, 
and keys, and powers, and glories should take place, and be revealed, 
from the days of Adam even to the present time; and not only this, but 
those things which never have been revealed from the foundation of the 
world, but have been kept hid from the wise and prudent, shall be 
revealed unto babes and sucklings in this the dispensation of the fullness 
of times. 

19. Now, what do we hear in the gospel which we have received? 
"A voice of gladness! A voice of mercy from heaven, and a voice of 
truth out of tne earth; glad tidings for the dead; a voice of gladness 
for the living and the dead; glad tidings of great joy. How beautiful 
upon the mountains are the feet of those that bring glad tidings of good 
things, and that say unto Zion, Behold! thy God reigneth. As the dews 
of Carmel, so shall the knowledge of God descend upon them." 

20. And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! 
Moroni, an angel from heaveu, declaring the fulfillment of the prophets 



152 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

— the book to be revealed. A voice of the Lord in the wilderness of 
Fayette, Seneca county, declaring: the three witnesses to bear record of 
the book. The voice of Michael on the banks of the Susquehanna, de- 
tecting the devil when he appeared as an angel of light. The voice'of 
Peter, James, and John, in the wilderness between Harmony, Susque- 
hanna county, and Colesville, Broome county, on the Susquehanna 
river, declaring themselves as possessing the keys of the kingdom and 
of the dispensation of the fullness of times. 

21. And again, the voice of God in the chamber of old Father Whitmer 
in Fayette, Seneca county, and at sundry times and in divers places, 
through all the travels and tribulations of this Church of Jesus Christ 
of Latter-day Saints. And the voice of Michael, the Archangel, the 
voice of Gabriel and of Raphael, and of divers angels from Michael or 
Adam down to the present time, all declaring their dispensation, their 
rights, their keys, their honors, their majesty and glory, and the 
power of their Priesthood; giving line upon line, precept upon precept; 
here a little, and there a little; giving us consolation by holding forth 
that which is to come, confirming our hopes. 

22. Brethren, shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward 
and not backward? Courage, brethren, and oq, on to the victory I 
Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceeding glad. Let the earth break 
forth into singing. Let the dead speak forth anthems of eternal praise 
to the King Immanuel, who hath ordained before the world was, that 
which would enable us to redeem them out of their prisons; for the 
prisoners shall go free. 

23. Let the mountains shout for joy, and all^ye valleys cry aloud; 
and all ye seas and dry lands tell the wonders of your eternal King. And 
ye rivers, and brooks, and rills flow down with gladness. Let the 
woods and all the trees of the field praise the Lord; and ye solid rocks 
weep for joy. And let the sun, moon, and the morning stars sing 
together, and let all the sons of God shout for joy. And let the eternal 
creation declare His name for ever and ever. And again I say, how 
glorious is the voice we hear from heaven, proclaiming in our ears, 
glory, and salvation, and honor, and immortality and eternal life, king- 
doms, principalities and powers. 

24. Behold the great day of the Lord is at hand; and who ean abide 
the day of His coming, and who can stand when He appeareth? For 
He is like a refiner's fire, and like fuller's soap; and He shall sit as a 
refiner and purifier of silver, and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and 
purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an 
offering in righteousness. Let us, therefore, as a Church and a people, 
and as Latter-day Saints, offer unto the Lord an offering in righteous- 
ness, and let us present, in His holy Temple, when it is finished, a 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 153 

book containing the records of our dead, which shall be worthy of all 
acceptation. 

25. Brethren, I have many things to say to you on the subject, but 
shall now close for the present, and continue the subject another 
time. 

I am, as ever, your humble servant, and never deviating friend, 

Joseph Smith. 

The important instructions contained in the foregoing 
letter made a deep and solemn impression on The Letter > s 
the minds of the Saints ; and they manifested Effect 
their intentions to obey the instructions to the letter. 

In the evening, William Clayton and Bishop Whitney 
called to see me concerning a settlement with Edward 
Hunter. Also Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and 
Amasa Lyman, called to counsel concerning their mission 
to the branches and. people abroad. 

Wednesday, September 7. — Early this morning Elders 
Adams and Rogers, of New York, brought me several 
letters — one from Dr. Willard Richards, who, referring 
to his visit with James Arlington Bennett, Esq., of Ar- 
lington House, says, he "would be pleased to receive a 
letter of President Joseph's own dictation, signed by his 
own hand;" which request I was disposed to comply 
with, but deferred it till the next day. 

Governor Carlin wrote as follows : 

Governor Carlin^s Letter to Emma Smith — Nauvoo's Charter and the 
Writ of Habeas Corpus. 

Quincy, September 7, 1842. 
Dear Madam. — Your letter of the 27th ultimo was delivered to me 
on Monday, the 5th instant, and I have not had time to answer it until 
this evening; and I now appropriate a few moments to the difficult task 
of replying satisfactorily to its contents, every word of which evinces 
your devotedness to the interest of your husband, and pouring forth the 
effusions of a heart wholly his. I am thus admonished that I can say 
nothing, that does not subserve his interest that can possibly be satis- 
factory to you; and before I proceed, I will here repeat my great 



154 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1842 

regret that I have been officially called upon to act in reference to Air. 
Smith in any manner whatever. 

I doubt not your candor when you say you do not desire me "to 
swerve from my duty as executive in the least," and all you ask is to be 
allowed the privileges and advantages guaranteed to you by the Con- 
stitution and laws. You then refer me to the 11th Section of the 
Charter of the city of Nauvoo, and claim for Mr. Smith the right to be 
heard by the Municipal Court of said city, under a writ of habeas cor- 
pus emanating from said court, when he was held in custody under an 
executive warrant. 

The Charter of the city of Nauvoo is not before me at this time; but I 
have examined both the Charters and city ordinances upon the subject 
and must express my surprise at the extraordinary assumption of 
power by the board of aldermen as contained in said ordinance! From 
my recollection of the Charter it authorizes the Municipal Court to 
issue writs of habeas corpus in all cases of imprisonment or custody 
arising from the authority of the ordinances of said city, but that the 
power was granted, or intended to be granted, to release persons held 
in custody under the authority of writs issued by the courts or the execu- 
tive of the state, is most absurd and ridiculous; and to attempt to exer- 
cise it is a gross usurpation of power that cannot be tolerated. 

I have always expected and desired that Mr. Smith should avail him- 
self of the benefits of the laws of this state, and, of course, that he 
would be entitled to a writ of habeas corpus issued by the Circuit 
Court, and entitled to a hearing before said court; but to claim the 
right of a hearing before the Municipal Court of the city of Nauvoo is 
a burlesque upon the city Charter itself. 

As to Mr. Smith's guilt or innocence of the crime charged upon him, 
it is not my province to investigate or determine; nor has any court on 
earth jurisdiction of his case, but the courts of the state of Missouri; 
and as stated iu my former letter, both the Constitution and laws pre- 
sume that each and every state in this Union are competent to do 
justice to all who may be charged with crime committed in said 
state. 

Your information that twelve men from Jackson county, Missouri, 
were lying in wait for Mr. Smith between Nauvoo and Warsaw, for 
the purpose of taking him out of the hands of the officers who might 
have him in custody, and murdering him, is like many other marvel- 
ous stories that you hear in reference to him — not one word of it true; 
but I doubt not that your mind has been continually harrowed up with 
fears produced by that and other equally groundless stories. That that 
statement is true is next to impossible; and your own judgment, if 
you will but give it scope, will soon set you right in reference to it. 



A.D. 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 155 

If any of the citizens of Jackson county had designed to murder Mr. 
Smith, they would not have been so simple as to perpetrate the crime 
in Illinois, when he would necessarily be required to pass through to 
the interior of the state of Missouri, where the opportunity would 
have been so much better, and the prospect of escape much more 
certain. That is like the statement made by Mr. Smith's first messen- 
ger, after his arrest, to Messrs. Ralston and Warren, saying that I had 
stated that Mr. Smith should be surrendered to the authorities of 
Missouri, dead or alive; not one word of which was true. I have not 
the most distant thought that any person in Illinois or Missouri con- 
templated personal injury to Mr. Smith by violence m any manner 
whatever. 

I regret that I did not see GTeneral Law when last at Quincy. A 
previous engagement upon business that could not be dispensed with 
prevented, and occupied my attention that evening until dark. At 
half-past one o'clock p. m., I came home, and learned that the General 
had called to see me; but the hurry of business only allowed me about 
ten minutes time to eat my dinner, and presuming, if he had business 
of any importance, that he would remain in the city until I returned. 

It may be proper here, in order to afford you all the satisfaction in 
my power, to reply to a question propounded to my wife by General 
Law, in reference to Mr. Smith, — viz., whether any other or additional 
demand had been made upon me by the Governor of Missouri for the 
surrender of Mr. Smith. I answer, none. No change whatever has 
been made in the proceedings. Mr. Smith has been held accountable 
only for the charge as set forth in my warrant under which he was 
arrested. 

In conclusion you presume upon my own knowledge of Mr. Smith's 
innocence; and ask why the prosecution is continued against him. 
Here I must again appeal to your own good judgment; and you will 
be compelled to answer that it is impossible I could know him to be 
innocent; and, as before stated, it is not my province to investigate as 
to his guilt or innocence. But could I know him innocent, and were 
he my own son, I would nevertheless, (and the more readily) sur- 
render him to the legally constituted authority to pronounce him 
innocent. 

With sentiments of high regard and esteem, your obedient servant, 

Thomas Carlin. 
To Mrs. Emma Smith. 

Brothers Adams and Rogers called again this after- 
noon, and I related to them many interpositions of Divine 
Providence in my favor, &c. 



156 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D, 1842 

Thursday, 8. — I dictated the following: 

Ihe PropheVs Letter to James Arlington Bennett — The Forthcoming Book 
of John G. Bennett. 

NAuvoo, September 8, 1842. 

I have just received your very consoling letter, dated August 16, 
1842, which is, I think, the first letter you ever addressed to me, in 
which you speak of the arrival of Dr. Willard Richards, and of his 
personality very respectfully. In this I rejoice, for lam as warm a friend 
to Dr. Richards as he possibly can be to me. And in relation to his 
almost making a * 'Mormon" of yourself, it puts me in mind of the say- 
ing of Paul in his reply to Agrippa, Acts xxvi: 29, "I would to God 
that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost 
and altogether such as I am, except these bonds." And I will here 
remark, my dear sir, that "Mornionism" is the pure doctrine of Jesus 
Christ; of which I myself am not ashamed. 

You speak also of Elder Foster, President of the Church in New 
York, in high terms; and of Dr. Bernhisel, in New York. These men 
I am acquainted with by information; and it warms my heart to know 
that you speak well of them, and, as you say, could be willing to asso- 
ciate with them for ever, if you never joined their Church or acknowl- 
edged their faith. This is a good principle; for when we see virtuous 
qualities in men, we should always acknowledge them, let their under- 
standing be what it may in relation to creeds and doctrine; for all 
men are, or ought to be free, possessing unalienable rights, and the high 
and noble qualifications of the laws of nature and of self-preservation, 
to think, and act, and say as they please, while they maintain a due 
respect to the rights and privileges of all other creatures, infringing 
upon none. 

This doctrine I do most heartily subscribe to and practice, the testi- 
mony of mean men to the contrary notwithstanding. But, sir, I will 
assure you that my soul soars far above all the mean and groveling 
dispositions of men that are disposed to abuse me and my character, I 
therefore shall not dwell upon that subject. 

In relation to those men you speak of referred to above, I will 
only say that there are thousands of such men in this Church, who, if a 
man is found worthy to associate with, will call down the envy of a 
mean world, because of their high and noble demeanor; and it is with 
unspeakable delight that I contemplate them as my friends and 
brethren. I love them with a perfect love; and I hope they love me, 
and have no reason to doubt that they do. 

The next in consideration is John C. Bennett. I was his friend; I 
am yet his friend, as I feel myself bound to be a friend to all the sons 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 157 

of Adam. Whether they are just or uujust, they have a degree of 
my compassion and sympathy. If be is my enemy, it is his own fault; 
and the responsibility rests upon his own head; and instead of arraign- 
ing his character before you, suffice it to sa^ that his own conduct, 
wherever he goes,will be sufficient to recommend him to an enlightened 
public, whether for a bad man or a good one. 

Therefore whosoever will associate themselves with him, may be 
assured that I will not persecute them; but I do not wish their associa- 
tion, and what I have said may suffice on that subject, so far as his 
character is concerned. Now, in relation to his book that he may 
write. I will venture to prophesy that whoever has any hand in the 
matter, will find themselves in a poor fix in relation to the money mat- 
ters; and as to my having any fears of the influence that he or any other 
man or set of men may have against me — I will say this is most foreign 
from my heart; for I never knew what it was, as yet, to fear the face 
of clay, or the influence of man. My fear, sir, is before God. I fear 
to offend Him, and strive to keep His commandments. I am really 
glad that you did not join John C. Bennett in relation to his book, 
from the assurances which I have that it will prove a curse to all 
those who touch it. 

In relation to the honor that you speak of, both foi yourself and 
James Gordon Bennett, of the Herald, you are both strangers to me; 
and as John C. Bennett kept all his letters which he received from you 
entirely to himself, and there was no correspondence between you and 
me, that I know of, I had no opportunity to share very largely in the get- 
ting up of any of those matters. I could not, as I had not sufficient knowl- 
edge to enable me to do so. The whole, therefore, was at the insti- 
gation of John C. Bennett, and a quiet submission on the part of the 
rest, out of the best of feelings; but as fur myself, it was all done at a 
time when I was overwhelmed with a great many business cares, as 
well as the care of all the churches. I must be excused, therefore, for 
any wrongs that may have taken place in relation to this matter; 
and so far as I obtain a knowledge of that which is right, it shall meet 
with my hearty approval. 

I feel to tender you my most hearty and sincere thanks for every 
expression of kindness you have tendered towards me or my breth- 
ren, and would beg the privilege of intruding myself a little while upon 
your patience, in offering a short relation of my circumstances. I am 
at this time persecuted the worst of any man on the earth, as well as 
this people, here in this place, and all our sacred rights are trampled 
under the feet of the mob. lam now hunted as a hart by the mob, 
under the pretense or shadow of law, to cover their abominable 
deeds. ******** 



158 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. TA.D. 1842 

I now appeal to you, sir, inasmuch as you have subscribed yourself our 
friend: Will you lift your yoice and your arm with indignation against 
such unhallowed oppression? I must say, sir, that my bosom swells with 
unutterable anguish when I contemplate the scenes of horror that we have 
passed through in the state of Missouri, and then look, and behold, and 
see the storm and cloud gathering ten times blacker, ready to burst 
upon the heads of this innocent people. Would to God that I were" 
able to throw off the yoke. Shall we bow down and be slaves? Are 
there no friends of humanity in a nation that boasts itself so much? 
Will not the nation rise up and defend us? If they will not defend us, 
will they not grant to lend a voice of indignation against such unhal- 
lowed oppression? Must the tens of thousands bow down to slavery and 
degradation? Let the pride of the nation arise and wrench these 
shackles from the feet of their fellow citizens, and their quiet, and 
peaceable, and innocent and loyal subjects. But I must forbear, for I 
cannot express my feelings. 

The legion would all willingly die in the defense of their rights; 
but what would this accomplish? I have kept down their indignation, 
and kept a quiet submission on all hands, and am determined to do so 
at all hazards. Our enemies shall not have it to say that we rebel 
against government or commit treason. However much they may lift 
their hands in oppression and tyranny, when it comes in the form of 
government we tamely submit, although it lead us to the slaughter and 
to beggary; but our blood be upon their garments: and those who look 
tamely on and boast of patriotism shall not be without their condemna- 
tion. 

And if men are such fools as to let once the precedent be established, 
and through their prejudices give assent to such abominations, then let 
the oppressor's hand lay heavily throughout the world, until all flesh 
shall feel it together, and until they may know that the Almighty takes 
cognizance of such things. And then shall church rise up against 
church, and party against party, mob agaiust mob, oppressor against 
oppressor, army against army, kingdom against kingdom, and people 
against people, and kindred against kindred. 

And where, sir, will be your safety or the safety of your children, if 
my children can be led to the slaughter with impunity by the hand of 
murderous rebels? Will they not lead yours to the slaughter with the 
same impunity? Ought not, then, this oppression, sir, to be checked in 
the bud, and to be looked down [upon] with just indignation by an en- 
lightened world, before the flame become xinextinguishable, and the fire 
devours the stubble? 

But again I say I must forbear, and leave this painful subject. I wish 
you would write to me in answer to this, and let me know your views. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 159 

On my part, I am ready to be offered up a sacrifice in that way that 
can bring to pass the greatest benefit and good to those who must nec- 
essarily be interested in this important matter. I would to God that 
you could know all my feelings on this subject, and the real facts iu 
relation to this people, and their unrelenting persecution. Aud if any 
man feels an interest in the welfare of their fellow- beings, and would 
think of saying or doing anything in this matter, I would suggest the 
propriety of a committee of wise men being sent to ascertain the justice 
or injustice of our cause, to get in possession of all the facts, and then 
make report to an enlightened world whether we, individually or col- 
lectively, are deserving such high-handed treatment. 

In relation to the books that you sent here, John C. Bennett put them 
into my store, to be sold on commission, saying that, when I was able, 
the money must be remitted to yourself. Nothing was said about any 
consecration to the Temple. 

Another calamity has befallen us. Our post office in this place is 
exceedingly corrupt. It is with great difficulty that we can get our let- 
ters to or from our friends. Our papers that we send to our subscribers 
are embezzled and burned, or wasted. We get no money from our 
subscribers, and very little information from abroad; and what little we 
do get, we get by private means, in consequence of these things: and I 
am sorry to say, that this robbing of the post office of money was 
carried on by John C. Bennett: and since he left here, it is carried on 
by the means of his confederates. 

I now subscribe myself your friend, and a" patriot and lover of my 
country, pleading at their feet for protection and deliverance, by the 
justice of their Constitution, 

I add no more. Your most obedient servant, 

Joseph Smith. 



160 HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1842 



CHAPTER IX. 

LETTER OF JAMES ARLINGTON BENNETT TO THE PROPHET 
AND THE N. Y. " HERALD" — EMMA'S ILLNESS — PLOTS TO 
ENTRAP THE PROPHET — LEGAL OPINION OF JUSTIN BUT- 
TERFIELD ON THE MISSOURI PROCEDURE. 

Friday, September 9, 1842. — At 10 p. m. I received a 
very interesting visit from Emma, Amasa Lyman, George 
A, Smith and Wilson Law. 

I counseled George A. Smith and Amasa Lyman to stay 

in Illinois and preach in the principal cities against moboc- 

M racy, and to notify the Twelve that it was my 

Movements of J 1 J J 

the Prophet wish that they should also labor in Illinois. 
After a conversation of two hours, I accom- 
panied the brethren and Emma to my house, remaining 
there a few minutes to offer a blessing upon the heads of 
my sleeping children ; then called a few minutes at the 
house of my cousin George A. Smith, on my way to my 
retreat at Edward Hunter's. John D. Parker accompanied 
me as -guard. 

Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Amasa Lyman, 
George A. Smith, and Charles 0. Rich declared to the 
city council their intention of absence for three months or 
more, and others were appointed to fill their places during 
their absence. John P. Greene, Lyman Wight, and Wil- 
liam Law were absent, and their places were filled. The 
object of the absence of these brethren was to preach the 
gospel in different states, and show up the wickedness and 
falsehood of the apostate John C. Bennett. 

An ordinance relative to the returns of writs of habeas 
corpus was passed by the city council as follows : 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHOKCH. 161 

An ordinance relative to the return of writs of Habeas Corpus. 

Sec. 1, Be it, and it is hereby ordained by the city council of the city 
of Nauvoo, that the Municipal Court, in issuing writs o'f Habeas Corpus, 
may make the same returnable forthwith. 

Sec. 2. This ordinance to take effect, and be in force from, and after 
its passage, passed September 9th, 1842. 

Geo. W. Harris, 

President pro tern. 
James Sloan, Recorder. 

President Young started on his mission. 

Saturday, 10. — Heber C. Kimball, George A. Smith, 
and Amasa Lyman started on their mission, and proceeded 
as far as Lima, where they met Brigham Young, who was 
preaching to a congregation. This was the day for the 
training of the companies of the Nauvoo Legion ; and, lest 
I should be observed by the multitude passing and repas- 
ing, I kept very still. After dark, my wife sent a mes- 
senger and requested me to return home, as she thought 
I would be as safe there as anywhere ; and I went safely 
home undiscovered. 

Sunday, 11. — I was at home all day. My letter of the 
6th of September was read to the Saints, at the grove near 
the temple. The High Priests' quorum met. Several had 
gone on missions; others were preparing to go, but few 
were present, and the meeting adjourned sine die. 

Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, George A. 
Smith and Amasa Lyman addressed a large assembly in 
the grove in Lima, in relation to the slanderous reports of 
John C. Bennett. 

Monday, 12. — 

Letter from Brigham Young and Heber G. Kimball — Reporting their 

Movements. 

To the Editor of the limes and Seasons: 

Dear Brother: — Having commenced our mission yesterday, we held 
our first conference at Brother Isaac Morley's. We had a good time. 
The- brethren here are in good spirits. We ordained nineteen elders, 
and baptized twelve. We expect next Saturday and Sunday to hold a 

1 1 vol. v. 



162 HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 184^ 

two days 7 meeting in Quincy, being the 17th and 18th instant; on the 
24th and 25th, at Payson; the 1st and 2nd of October, at Pleasant Vale; 
the Sth and 11th October, at Pittsfield, the 15th and 16th October, at 
Apple Creek in Green county. From thence we shall proceed to Jack- 
sonville and Springfield. 

If you please, notice the above in your paper for the benefit of those 
friends scattered abroad. 

Yours in the everlasting covenant, 

Brigham Young, 
Heber C. Kimball. 
Morley Settlement, September 12, 1842. 

I was at home all day in company with Brothers Adams 
and Rogers, and counseled Brother Adams to write a letter 
to the governor. In the evening, Emma received governor 
Carlin's letter of the 7th instant. 

Tuesday, 13. — At home all day. Settled with Edward 
Hunter. 

Wednesday, 14. — At home. Mr. Remmick gave me a 
deed of one half his landed property in Keokuk, though 
it will be a long time, if ever, before it will be of any 
benefit to me. Had a consultation with Calvin A. Warren, 
Esq. In the evening I received the following letter from 
General James Arlington Bennett: 

Letter of James Arlington Bennett — Treating Chiefly of John C. Bennett 

and his Book. 

Arlington House, September 1, 1842. 
Lieutenant General Smith: 

Dear Sir: — Mrs. Smith's letter to Mrs. Bennett, containing a very 
lucid account of Dr. John C. Bennett, has been received; and the only 
thing concerning him that I regard of importance is that you found it 
necessary to expose him. I wish most ardently that you had let him 
depart in peace, because the public generally think no better of either 
the one party or the other, in consequence of the pretended exposures 
with which the newspapers have teemed. But then, in the long run, 
you will have the advantage, inasmuch as the universal notoriety which 
you are now acquiring will be the means of adding to Nauvoo three 
hundred fold. 

That you ought to be given up to the tender mercies of Missouri no 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 163 

rnau in his senses will allow, as you would be convicted on the shadow 
of evidence when the people's passions and prejudices are so strongly 
enlisted against you; and, under such a state of things, how easily it 
would be to suborn witnesses against you, who would seal your fate! 
Add to this, too, the great difficulty under which an impartial jury, if 
such could be found, would labor in their attempt to render an honest 
verdict, being coerced by surroundiug public prejudice and malice. And 
yet, as you are now circumstanced, it will not do to oppose force to 
force for your protection, as this in the present case would be treason 
against the state, and would ultimately bring to ruin all those con- 
cerned. 

Your only plan, I think, will be to keep out of the way until this ex- 
citement shall have subsided, as, from all I can understand, even from 
the Dr. himself, there is no evidence on which an honest jury could find 
a verdict against you; and this opinion I have expressed to him. 

I most ardently wish that you had one hundred thousand true men at 
Nauvoo, and that I had the command of them, times and things would 
soon alter. I hope to see the day, before I die, that such an army will 
dictate terms from Nauuoo to the enemies of the Mormon people. I say 
this in the most perfect candor, as I have nothing to gain by the Mor- 
. mons, nor am I a Mormon in creed; yet I regard them in as favorable a 
light (and a little more so,) as I do any other sect. In fact, I am a 
philosophical Christian, and wish to see an entire change in the religious 
world . 

I have been long a Mormon in sympathy alone, and probably can 
never be one in any other way; yet I feel that I am a friend of the peo- 
ple, as I think them honest and sincere in their faith; and those I know 
[are] as good and honorable men as any other professing Christians. 

Dr. Bennett has been the means of bringing me before your people, 
you will therefore see, for this act, I am in honor bound to say, "Peace 
to his manes." To act otherwise would be ungrateful and dishonorable 
both of which qualities are strangers to my nature: nevertheless, by 
leaving him as he is, I can still be your friend; for be assured that 
nothing I have seen yet from his pen has in the least altered my opinion 
of you. I well know what allowances to make in such cases. 

Dr. Bennett and Bachelor are now delivering lectures in New York 
against you and your doctrines and asserted practices at Nauvoo. 

Elder Foster told me, this forenoon, that the seats have been torn to 
pieces out of his church in Canal-street, and that the congregation had 
to move to another place. 

I intimated to you, in my last, that Bennett of the Herald was about 
to publish, conjointly with the Doctor, his Book of Exposures; but since, 
have learned that it is about to come out in Boston. He expects to 



164 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. [A. D. 1842 

make a fortune out of it, and I presume he needs it; but I feel sure 
that it will make converts to the Mormon faith. He has borrowed largely 
from Com. Morris' lascivious poems. 

A general order, signed by Hugh McFall, Adjutant-General, and 
authorized by you, has appeared in the Herald, ordering me to repair 
to Nauvoo, to take command of the Legion, and to bring with me Brig.- 
Gen. J. G. Bennett, which states that, if the requisition be persisted in, 
blood must be shed. I have assured Bennett of the Herald that I deem 
it a hoax, but he insists upon it that it is genuine. My reply to it has , 
appeared to day in that paper. I have there stated that I have written 
to Gov. Carlin for instructions. This is not so: it is only a rub. 

On the whole, you will only be made a greater prophet and a greater 
man — a great Emperor, by the affliction and consideration of your good 
friends. 

My respects, with those of Mrs. B., to your lady. 

I am, dear sir, your sincere friend, 

James Arlington Bennett. 

This letter was placed in the hands of General Hugh 
McFall, who immediately wrote a refutation of the clause, 
concerning himself to Governor Carlin, and also one for 
the Wasp. The general order was not written by McFall, 
neither had he a knowledge of its existence until shown 
to him in the letter. It was evidently got up by our ene- 
mies to increase excitement and anger, and is barely an- 
other addition to the many slanderous reports put in circu- 
lation by evil and designing men. 

Thursday, 15. — In council with C. A. Warren, Esq. 
Also counseled Uncle John Smith and Brother Daniel C. 
Davis to move immediately to Keokuk, and help to build 
up a city. 

Friday, 16. — At home with Brother Rogers, who was 
painting my likeness. 

Saturday, 17. — I was at home with Brother Rogers, who 
continued painting my portrait. Elder William Clayton 
wrote Governor Carlin- a long letter, showing up the Mis- 
souri persecution and my sufferings in their true colors. 

Ship Sidney sailed from Liverpool for New Orleans with 
180 Saints. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 165 

Sunday, 18. — At home. In the evening, received a visit 
from my mother. 

Monday, 19, and Tuesday, 20. — With Brother Sogers, 
painting at my house. 

Wednesday , 21. — In the large room over the store. In 
the evening had a visit from Elder John Taylor, who is 
just recovering from a long and very severe attack of sick- 
ness. I counseled Elder Taylor concerning the printing 
office, removing one press to Keokuk, &c. 

Thursday, 22. — At home, arranging with Remmick 
concerning moving printing press to Keokuk, buying 
paper, &c. 

Friday, 23. — At home. Visited by Elder Taylor. 

Colonel George Miller was elected Bigadier-General of 
the 1st Cohort, Nauvoo Legion, to fill the vacancy of 
General Wilson Law, promoted. 

Saturday, 24. — The legion was called out for general 
parade, and reviewed by General Law. In the evening, 
Lieutenant- Colonel Stephen Markham was elected Colonel 
of the 1st Regiment, 1st Cohort, to fill the place of Colonel 
George Miller, promoted; and Captain John D. Parker 
elected to fill his place ; and Captain Thomas Rich to fill 
the place of Major Wightman, deceased. 

At home. Had a visit from Mr. Joseph Murdock, Sen., 
and lady concerning some land, &c, at St. Joseph. 

Sunday, 25. — At the Grove. Spoke more than two 
hours, chiefly on the subject of persecution. 

Ship Medforci sailed from Liverpool for New Orleans 
with 214 Saints. 

Monday, 26. — The office of Notary Public for the city 
of Nauvoo was created by the city council, and James 
Sloan was elected. A seal for the Municipal Court was 
ordered by the council. 

Tuesday, 27, and Wednesday, 28. — At home. Nothing 
of importance transpired. 28.- Ship Henry sailed from 
Liverpool for New Orleans with 157 Saints. 

September 28, 1841 : 



166 HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1842 

A Baptist Excommunication. 

Resolved, that William Seichrist be excluded from the fellowship of 
this [the first regular Baptist] church [of the city of Alleghany, Alle- 
ghany county, Pennsylvania,] for embracing and maintaining a heresy, — 
to wit, doctrines peculiar to a late sect called Mormons or Latter-day 
Saints, that miracles can be wrought through the instrumentality of 
faith; that special revelations from God are now given to men; and that 
godly men are now endowed with the gift of prophecy, such as to fore- 
tell future events. William Bensun, Church Clerk. Deacon John Beck 
was moderator of the meeting. 

Thursday, 29. — This day, Emma began to be sick with 
fever; consequently I kept in the house with her all day. 

Friday, 30. — Emma is no better. I was with her all 
day. 

Saturday, October 1. — This morning I had a very severe 
pain in my left side, and was not able to be about. Emma 
Temple Com- sick as usual. I had previously sent for the 
mitte Affairs. Temple committee to balance their accounts 
and ascertain how the Temple business was going on. 
Some reports had been circulated that the committee was- 
not making a righteous disposition of property consecrated 
for the building of the Temple, and there appeared to be 
some dissatisfaction amongst the laborers. After care- 
fully examining the accounts and enquiring into the man* 
ner of the proceedings of the committee, I expressed my- 
self perfectly satisfied with them and their works. The 
books were balanced between the trustee and committee, 
and the wages of all agreed upon. 

I said to the brethren that I was amenable to the state 
for the faithful discharge of my duties as trustee-in-trust, 
and that the Temple committee were accountable to me, 
and to no other authority ; and they must not take notice 
of any complaints from any source, but let the complaints- 
be made to me, if any were needed, and I would make 
things right. The parties separated perfectly satisfied, 
and I remarked that I would have a notice published, stat- 
ing that I had examined their accounts and was satisfied ? 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUBCH. 167 

&c. It was also agreed that the recorder's office should 
be moved to the Temple, for the convenience of all. 

In this day's Wasp I noticed ihe following letter from 
Elder Pratt: 

Letter of Elder Orson Prah — Denying any Relations ivith John 
C. Bennett, 

City of Nauyoo, Illinois, September 26, 1842. 
Mr. Editor: 

Dear Sir: — I noticed in the last week's Wasp a letter from Dr. R. 
D. Foster, written from New York city, which states that Dr. John C. 
Bennett had declared in said city that he had received a letter from me 
and from my wife, and that we were preparing to leave and expose 
Mormonism. 

I wish through the medium of your paper to say to the public that 
said statements are entirely false. We have never at any time written 
any letter or letters to Dr. J. C. Bennett, on any subject whatever. 
Neither are we "preparing to leave and expose Mormonism," but intend 
to make Nauvoo our residence, and Mormonism our motto. 

Respectfully, 

Orson Pratt. 

Sunday , 2. — About ten o'clock in the forenoon, a mes- 
senger arrived from Quincy, stating that the governor had 
offered a reward of $200 for Joseph Smith, R ewa rd offer- 
Jun., and also $200 for Orrin P. Rockwell. f rr f e ° s r t * e the 
This report was fully established on receipt of Pr °p^et. 
the mail papers. The Qitincy Whig also stated that Gov- 
ernor Reynolds has offered a reward, and published the 
governor's proclamation offering a reward of $300 for 
Joseph Smith, Jun., and $300 for Orrin P. Rockwell. It 
is not expected that much will be effected by the rewards. 

Emma continued very sick. I was with her all day. 

Monday , 3. — Emma was a little better. I was with her 
all day. 

Tuesday, 4.— Emma is very sick again. I attended with 
her all the day, being somewhat poorly myself. 

Wednesday , 5.— My dear Emma was worse. Many fears 
were entertained that she would not recover. She_ %as- 



168 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [^D. 1842 

baptized twice inj^h£jiyaiv-wh4ch^ev^ did her much 

The mness of good. She grew worse again at night, and con- 
Emma smith, tinued very sick indeed. 1 was unwell, and 
much troubled on account of Emma's sickness. 

Elder Rigdon called Elder William Clayton into his 
office, and said he had some matters to make known. He 
Rigdon's Re- had been at Carthage and had conversation 
ports of Plots, with Jugde Douglas concerning Governor Car- 
lin' s proceedings, &c, and had ascertained that Carlin 
had intentionally issued an illegal writ, expecting thereby 
to draw President Joseph to Carthage to get acquitted by 
habeas corpus before Douglas, and having men there 
waiting with a legal writ to serve on Joseph as soon as he 
^vas released under the other one, and bear him away to 
Missouri, without further ceremony. Elder Rigdon asked 
what power the governor's proclamation gave to any man 
or set of men who might be disposed to take President 
Joseph. He was answered, "Just the, same power and 
authority which a legal warrant gave to an officer." 

It is more and more evident that Carlin is determined 
to have me taken to Missouri, if he can. But may the 
Almighty Jehovah shield and defend me from all their 
power, and prolong. my days in peace, that I may guide 
His people in righteousness, until my head is white with 
old age. Amen. 

Thursday , 6. — Emma is better; and although it is the 
day on which she generally grows worse, yet she appears 
considerably easier. May the Lord speedily raise her to 
the bosom of her family, that the heart of His servant 
may be comforted again. Amen. My health is comfort- 
able. 

Friday, 7. — This morning Elder Elias Higbee states 
about the same things as were stated by Elder Rigdon two 
More Missouri days ago, and also that he had been informed 
plots. that many of the Missourians are coming to 

unite with the militia of this state voluntarily, and at their 
own expense; so that after the court rises at Carthage, if 



A.D. 1842| HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 169 

they don't take rae there, they will come and search the 
city, &c. It is likely that this is only report. 

Emma is somewhat better. I am cheerful and well. 

From the situation and appearance of things abroad, I 
concluded to leave home foi a short season, until there 
should be some change in the proceedings of The Prophet > s 
my enemies. Accordingly, at twenty minutes KatherTay- 
after eight o'clock in the evening, I started lor ' s - 
away in company with Brothers John Taylor, Wilson Law, 
and John D. Parker, and traveled through the night and 
part of next day; and, after a tedious journey, amved at 
Father James Taylor's well and in good spirits. 

This day the teachers met in Nauvoo, and organized 
into a quorum, by appointing Elisha Averett, president; 
James Huntsman and Elijah Averett, counselors; Samuel 
Eggleston, scribe; and eleven members. 

Monday, 10. — Elder Taylor returned to Nauvoo and 
found Emma gaining slowly. My health and spirits are 
good. 

Tuesday, 11. — From the Times and Seasons: — 

Announcement Concerning Temple Committee -Affairs. 

lo the Saints at Nauvoo and Scattered Abroad: 

This may certify that President Joseph Smith, the trustee-in-trust 
for the Temple, called upon the Temple committee on the 1st instant to 
present their books and accounts for examination, and to give account 
of their work at the temple. After carefully and attentively examin- 
ing and comparing their books and accounts, the trustee expressed him- 
self well satisfied with the proceedings and labors of the committee, 
and ordered that this be published in the Times a/id Seasons, that the 
Saints may know the facts, and be thereby encourged to double their 
exertions and forward means to roll on the building of the Temple in 
Nauvoo. It was also ordered that the recorder's office be henceforth re- 
moved to the committee house near the Temple. All property and 
means must therefore be brought to that place, where it will be recorded 
in due form. 

William^ Clayton. 

Clerk and Recorder of the Temple. 
Nauvoo, October 11. 1842. 

Thursday, 13. — The brethren arrived from Wisconsin 



170 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1842 

with a raft of about 90,000 feet of boards and 24,000 
cubic feet of timber for the Temple and Nauvoo House. 

Saturday 15. — Brother John D. Parker returned to 
Nauvoo and informed my friends that I was well. 

Sunday, 16. — I copy the following from the New York 
Herald: 

THE MORMONS. 

Arlington House, October 16, 1S41. 
General J. G. Bennett- 

Sir: — Some time since I addressed a letter to Joseph Smith, the 
Mormon Prophet, in answer to a letter of his introducing to "my kind 
attention," a friend of his from the holy city of Nauvoo. 

In this letter I expressed my regret that the quarrel between him and 
John C. Bennett should have at all found its way to the public eye, 
this being the sole cause of placing him in his present awkward situ- 
ation. I likewise commiserated with him in his affliction, and signed 
myself at the conclusion of my letter, as his friend, which I really am, 
and the friend of all good Mormons, as well as other good men. 

Why should I not be Joseph Smith's friend? He has done nothing 
to injure me, nor do I believe he has done anything: to injure ex- 
Governor Boggs, of Missouri. The governor, no doubt, under strong 
feelings, may have thought and believed that Smith had preconcerted 
the plan for his assassination; but there is no legal evidence whatever of 
that fact — none by which an unprejudiced jury would convict any man; 
yet to send this man into Missouri, under the present requisition, would 
be an act of great injustice, as his ruin would be certain. 

How could any man, against whom there is a bitter religious prej- 
udice escape ruin, being in the circumstances of Smith? Look at the 
history of past ages — see the force of fanaticism and bigotry in bring- 
ing to the stake some of the best of men; and in all these cases the 
persecutors had they* pretexts, as well as in the case of the Mormon 
chief. Nothing follows its victim with such deadly aim as religious 
zeal, and therefore nothing should be so much guarded against by the 
civil power. 

Smith, I conceive, has just as good a right to establish a church, if 
he can do it, as Luther, Calvin, Wesley, Fox, or even King Henry the 
Eighth. All these chiefs in religion had their opponents, and their peo 
pie their persecutors. Henry the Eighth was excommunicated, body 
and bones, soul and all, by his holiness, the Pope; still the church of 
England has lived as well as all the other sects. 
Just so it will be with the Mormons. They may kill one prophet and 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHOECH. 171 

confine in chains half his followers, but another will take his place, 
and the Mormons will still go ahead. One of their Elders said to me, 
when conversing on this subject, that they were like a mustard plant, 
— "If yon don't disturb it, the seed will fall and multiply; and if you 
kick it about, you only give the seed more soil, and it will multiply the 
more." 

Undertake to convince them that they are wrong", and that Smith is 
an impostor, and the answer is, laying the hand, on the heart, "I know 
in my own soul that it is true, and want no better evidence: I feel 
happy in my faith; and why should I be disturbed?" 

Now, I cannot see but what this is the sentiment that governs all 
religiously disposed persons, their object being heaven and happiness, 
no matter what their church and creed. . They, therefore, cannot be 
put down while the Constitution of the United States offers them pro- 
tection in common with all other sects, and while they believe that 
their eternal salvation is at stake. From what I know of the people, I 
fully believe that all the real, sincere Mormons would die sooner than 
abandon their faith and their religion. 

General John C. Bennett has stated that to conquer the Mormon 
Legion it would require five to one against them, all things taken 
into consideration, and that they will die to a man sooner than give up 
their Prophet. 

Now, is the arrest of this man worth such a sacrifice of life as must 
necessarily follow an open war with his people? The loss of from one 
to three thousand lives will, no doubt, follow in an attempt to accom- 
plish an object not in the end worth a button. Persecute them, and 
you are sure to multiply them. This is fully proved since the Missouri 
persecution, as since that affair they have increased one hundred fold- 

It is the best policy, both of Missouri and Illinois, to let them alone; 
for if they are drove farther west, they may set up an independent 
government, under which they can worship the Almighty as may suit 
their taste. Indeed, I would recommend to the Prophet to pull up 
stakes and take possession of the Oregon teriitory in his own right, and 
establish an independent empire. In one humdred years from this 
time, no nation on earth could conquer such a people. Let not the his- 
tory of David be forgotten. If the Prophet Joseph would do this, mil- 
lions would flock to his standard and join his cause. He could then 
make his own laws by the voice of revelation, and have them executed 
like the act of one man. 

With respect to myself, I would just repeat that I am the Prophet's 
friend, and the friend of his people, merely from sympathy, as my arm 
has ever been lifted on the side of the persecuted and oppressed. I 
have never in my life followed the fat ox, nor bowed for a favor on my 



172 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. 1842 

own account to mortal man. While I despise the purse-proud man, I 
am proud to the proud man, and humble to the humble; and where 
men were contending, have ever thrown myself on the weakest side. 

By inserting this communication, it is presumed that no one will 
hold the Herald responsible for the sentiments it contains; yet I have 
no doubt that there are thousands of independent, liberal-minded men 
in this country who think'as 1 do. Neither the Mormon Prophet nor 
his people can add anything to my fortune or reputation. I expect 
nothing from them; they are a poor and industrious people, and have 
nothing to give. I am influenced in my conduct towards them by a 
spirit of benevolence and mercy, and hope the governor and state of 
Illinois will act in the like manner. It is true I was commissioned in 
tbeir Legion, through the instrumentality of their enemy, General John 
C. Bennett, an act entirely of their own, without my agency; but I was 
as much their friend before as since. 

The Missouri persecution fixed my attention and commiseration on 
the people. It must be recollected, too, that the Mormon Prophet and 
his people are the most ardent friends and promoters of literature and 
science. These are elementary principles in their social system, and 
this certainly is contrary to everything like despotism. 

I hope, therefore, and with great deference express that hope, that 
ex-Governor Boggs will withdraw his demand fdr the Prophet, and let 
those poor people rest in peace. Both he and Governor Carlin will 
feel much more at peace with themselves by quashing the whole pro- 
ceedings. 

Most respectfully, 

Your humble servant, 

James Arlington Bennett. 
Counselor at Law, &c. 

By this I discover a spark of liberty burning in the 
bosom of the writer. May it continue to burn and burn, 
till it once more fires the whole land with its heavenly 
influence. 

Thursday, 20. — Early this morning I arrived at home 
on a visit to my family. During the day I was visited by 
several of the brethren, who rejoiced to see me once 
more. Emma is still getting better, and is able to 
attend to a little business, having this day closed contract 
and received pay for a quarter section of land of Brother 
Job V. Barnum. 



A.D. 1842] HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. 173 

Justin Butter fields Legal Opinion on the Efforts to Drag Joseph Smith 

into Missouri. 

Chicago, October 20, 1842. 
Sidney Rigdon, Esq. 

Dear Sir: — In answer to your favors of the 17th instant, Mr. War- 
ren was correct in the information he gave you of my opinion of the 
illegality of the- requisition made by the governor of Missouri upon the 
governor of this state for the surrender of Joseph Smith, and that the 
governor of this state should cause him to be arrested for the purpose 
of being surrendered. I had no doubt but the supreme court of this 
state would discharge him upon habeas corpus. Subsequent examination 
has confirmed me in that opinion. 

I understand from your letter, and from the statement of facts made 
to me by Mr. Warren, that the requisition of the governor of Missouri 
is accompanied by an affidavit of ex-Governor Boggs, stating in sub- 
stance that on the 6th day of May last he was shot while sitting in his 
house, with intent to kill; and, as he verily believes, the act was com- 
mitted by 0. P. Rockwell; and that Joseph Smith was accessory to the 
crime before its commission; and that hp has fled from justice. That it 
can be proved that Joseph Smith was not in the state of Missouri at 
the time the crime was committed, but was in this state; that it is 
untrue that he was in the state of Missouri at the time of the commis- 
sion of the said crime, or has been there at any time since. He could 
not, therefore, have fled from that state since the commission of said 
crime. 

The light on the part of the governor of Missouri to demand Smith, 
and the duty on the part of the governor of this state to deliver him up, 
if they exist, are eriven and imposed by that clause of the Constitution 
of the United States which declares "that a person charged in any state 
with treason, felony, or other crime, who shall flee from justice and be 
found in another state, shall, on demand of the executive authority of 
the state from which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the state 
having jurisdiction of the crimes. 

It is unnecessary to refer to the act of Congress in relation to the 
delivery up of fugitives from justice, as Congress has just so much 
power, and no more, than is expressly given by the said clause in the 
Constitution. The Constitution is the best exponent of itself. What 
persons, then, can be surrendered up by the governor of one state to 
the governor of another? 

First. He must be a person charged with treason, felony, or other 
crime. ''It is sufficient if he be charged with the commission of crime, 
either by indictment found or by affidavit. Second. He must be a 
person who shall flee from justice and be found in another state." 



174 HISTORY OF THE CHUEOH. [A.D. 1842. 

It is not sufficient to satisfy this branch of the Constitution, that he 
should be "charged" with having fled from justice. Unless he has 
actually fled from the state where the offense was committed, to 
another state, the governor of this state has no jurisdiction over his 
person, and cannot deliver him up, 

When Mr. Smith is brought up on a habeas corpus, he will have a 
right, under the 3rd section of our habeas corpus act, to introduce testi- 
mony, and show that the process upon which he is arrested was 
obtained by false pretense ; that it is untrue that he fled from the state 
of Missouri, to evade being brought to justice there, for the crime of 
which he is charged. He will have the right to place himself upon the 
platform of the Constitution of the United States, and say, 
I am a citizen of the state of Illinois; I have not fled from the state 
of Missouri, or from the "justice" of that state, on account of the com- 
mission of the crime with which I am charged. I am ready to prove 
that the charge of having fled from that state is false, and I am not, 
therefore, subject under the Constitution of the United States, to be 
delivered up to that sta^e for trial. 

You say, in your letter to me, that you doubt whether ou a habeas 
corpus the court would have a right to try the question, whether Smith 
was in Missouri at the time of the commission of the crime of which he 
is charged. To this I answer, that upon a habeas corpus, the court 
would be bound to try the question, whether Smith fled from justice 
from Missouri to this state. The affidavit of Mr. Boggs is not con- 
clusive on this point. It maybe rebutted. Unless Smith is a person who 
has fled from justice, he is not subject to be delivered up, under the 
express provisions of our own habeas corpus act. He has a right to 
show that the affidavit is false, and that the order for his arrest was 
obtained by false pretenses. Again, the affidavit on its face was not 
sufficient to authorize the arrest of Smith. It is evasive and deceptive. 
It does not show that he fled from the state of Missouri to evade justice 
for the commission of the crime of which he is charged by Governor 
Boggs, 

Robert G. Williams, in the year 1835, was indicted in the state of 
Alabama for attempting to incite rebellion and insurrection in that 
state. He was demanded by the governor of that state of the governor 
of New York, and the requisition stated that he had fled from justice. 
The governor of the state of New York (Marcv^ took notice that the 
said Williams was a citizen of the state of New York, and had not fled 
from justice from Alabama, and on that ground alone refused to sur- 
render him up. This was a stronger case than that of Smith, as an 
indictment had been Jound. Governor Marcy puts his refusal upon the 
express ground that, by the Constitution of the United States, the gov- 



A.D. 1842 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 175 

ernor of one state had no right to demand, nor the governor of another 
state a right to surrender up, one of his citizens, unless he had fled 
from justice; and it was the right and duty of the governor upon whom 
the demand was made to inquire into the fact whether he had fled from 
justice before he made the surrender. 

I have the book containing all the proceedings in this case of Wil- 
liams. There are several other cases equal in point, and they proceed 
upon the ground that a governor of a state has no jurisdiction over the 
body of a citizen to arrest and surrender him tip to a foreign state, 
unless he is a fugitive from that state, unless he has fled from the state 
to evade ''justice," or, in other words, to evade being tried for the 
offense with which he is charged. 

In a despotic form of government, the sovereign power is the will of 
the monarch, who can act in every instance as may suit his pleasure. 
But can the governor of one of our states, of his own mere will, with- 
out auy authority from the Constitution, or the legislative power of the 
state, arrest and deliver up to a foreign government any person what- 
ever? If he can do this, then is the liberty of the citizen wholly at his 
disposal. 

The writ of habeas corpus is a suit which every person imprisoned or 
unlawfully detained has a right to prosecute for the recovery of his 
liberty; and, if he is in custody by process from a competent power, he 
is entitled to his discharge when the jurisdiction has been executed. 

The government of this state has no power or jurisdiction over the 
person of a citizen of this state to arrest and cause him to be delivered 
up and transported to another state, except the power is expressly given 
to him by the Constitution of the United States. And what is that 
power? It only authorizes the governor of one state to surrender up a 
fugitive from justice, to return him back to the state from whence he 
has fled. 

First. The person to be surrendered up must be a fugitive from the 
state to which it is attempted to surrender him. 

Second. He must be a fugitive jrom justice; in other words, he must 
have been in the state when and where the crime was committed, and 
have fled from the state to evade being apprehended and tried for that 
■crime. 

Third. Unless he is, in fact, such a fugitive from justice, the gover- 
nor has no power, by the laws and Constitution, to deliver him up. 

Fourth. If he is charged with being a fugitive from justice, and the 
governor cause him to be apprehended on that charge, he has a right to 
sue out a habeas corpus; and when brought up on that writ, he has the 
undoubted right of showing that the governor has no constitutional 
power to deliver him up to another state; that he has not "fled from 



176 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842' 

justice into this state," and is not such a person as the Constitution 
authorizes the governor to deliver up; and that it would be an excess- 
of jurisdiction on the part of the governor to deliver him up. 

The question to be examined into, upon the return of the habeas 
corpus, would be a mere question of locality. The question would be 
was Smith in this state, or not, at the time the crime was committed in 
Missouri? If he was in this state at that time, then he could not be a 
fugitive from justice from Missouri, in the sense of the Constitution* 
and the governor would have no power to deliver him up. 

The argument that because Governor Boggs has made affidavit that 
Smith has fled from justice, his affidavit is to be taken as conclusive on 
that point, and that upon the return of a habeas corpus, Smith would 
be precluded from controverting or showing the falsity of that affidavit, 
is too absurd to require a serious answer. 

The liberties of the citizens of this state are not held on quite so 
feeble a tenure, nor does the Constitution authorize the governor to 
transport the citizens of this state upon a mere * 'charge" made by a 
citizen of another state. Such is not the reading of the Constitution. 
That instrument only authorizes the delivery up of such persons, "who 
shall flee," upon the demand of the executive authority of the state 
from which they "fled." There must have been a "flight" in fact and 
in deed from the state where the offense was committed, or the gov- 
ernor has no jurisdiction to "deliver up." 

If the charge of having "fled" is made and the governor acting in 
pais* is attempting to deliver up upon that charge, the person attempted 
to be made the victim has a clear, undoubted, constitutional right by 
means of a writ of habeas corpus, to test its truth before a judicial 
tribunal of the country; and, if the charge is proven to be false, the 
governor is ousted of his jurisdiction over the person of the prisoner, 
and he is restored to his liberty before he has undergone the penalty of 
the transportation to a foreign country upon the mere charge of an 
interested or partial witness. 

The power of the executive of a state to surrender up a citizen to be 
transported to a foreign state for trial, is a most tremendous power, 
which might be greatly abused, were it not limited by constitutional 
checks, and the citizens secured against its despotic exercise by the writ 
of habeas corpus. 

In the case of Williams, the governor of New York, in his reply to 
the governor of Alabama, says, "What occurs daily in the ordinary 
course of criminal proceedings, may take place in regard to persons 
transported to a distant jurisdiction for trial. It may happen that an 
innocent man will be accused; and, if demanded, he must be delivered 

* A judicial act outside of court and not recorded. — Century Dictionary. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 177 

up, should your exposition of the Constitution be sanctioned. Under 
these circumstances, his condition would be perilous indeed, — dragged 
from his home, far removed from friends, borne down by the weight of 
imputed guilt, and unable, probably, to obtain the evidence by which 
he might vindicate his innocence. If appearances were against him, he 
could scarcely hope to escape unmerited condemnation. 7 ' 

The American colonists regard the exercise of this power as an act of 
revolting tyranny, and assigned it in the Declaration of Independence 
as one of the prominent causes that impelled them to a separation from 
the British Empire. A power which may be thus oppressively used 
should be resorted to with the greatest caution. When its exercise is 
invoked, it is not sufficient that the case may apparently come within 
the letter of the Constitution. It is the duty of the Executive before 
yielding a blind obedience to the letter of the law, to see that the case 
comes within the spirit and meaning of the Constitution. 

It may be pleasing as well as instructive to look into the proceedings 
of the executive of our sister state, and witness that, by faithfully 
administering the law in relation to the delivering up of fugitives from 
justice, according to its spirit and meaning, they have saved at least 
two of the citizens of Illinois from becoming victims to its abuse. In 
the year 1839, the governor of the state of New York was presented 
with the copy of an indictment by a grand jury in the city of New York 
against John and Nathan Aldrich, for fraud in obtaining goods by false 
pretenses, and was requested to make a requisition upon the governor 
of Illinois to surrender them up as fugitives from justice. 

Now, here was a case which came exactly within the letter of the law 
of Congress in relation to fugitives from justice. An indictment had 
been found charging them with having committed a crime. But did the 
governor of New York make the "requisition?" No; he referred the 
application to the Hon. John C. Spencer, now Secretary of War, and 
one of the most enlightened lawyers of the age. 

Extract of Mr, Spencer's Opinion upon the Case, 

The constitutional provision under which requisitions may be made by 
the governor of one state upon the governor of another was a substi- 
tute for the principle recognized by the law of nations, by which one 
sovereign is bound to deliver to another fugitives who have committed 
certain offenses. These offenses are of the deepest grade of criminality, 
and robbers, murderers and incendiaries, and those enumerated as 
proper to be surrendered. Following the analogy thus suggested, the 
provisions in our Constitution, it would seem, should be construed 
to embrace similar cases only, except, perhaps, those offenses which 
arise from an abuse of the same constitutional provision. That pro- 

12 Vol. V. 



178 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1842 

vision must be guarded with the utmost care, or it will become intoler- 
able. I do not think the circumstances of the case before me are of 
such grave import, or the offense itself of such high grade, as to justify 
the requisition desired. The power given by the Constitution ought 
not to be cheapened or applied to trifling offenses, or indeed to any 
that was not originally contemplated. 

For the reasons stated in Mr. Spencer's opinion, the governor of 
New York refused to make the requisition upon the governor of Illi- 
nois. The case certainly came within the letter of the law, but not with- 
in the spirit and meaning. So with the affidavit of Governor Boggs, 
when he swears that Smith has fled from justice. It may come within 
the letter of the Constitution; but does it come within its spirit and 
meaning? Does it show that Smith was in Missouri at the time of the 
commission of the crime, and that he fled from that state to evade being 
brought to justice for that crime? Or does it refer to the flight of 
Smith and the Mormons from Missouri some years since? 

I will refer to one more case of a similar nature. Lord Campbell, 
formerly attorney-general of England, in a recent debate in Parlia- 
ment upon the subject of the Creole, made the following remarks: 

4 'To show how cautious states should be in making such concessions 
one to the other reciprocally, he would mention a case that occurred 
when he was attorney-general. A treaty had been agreed upon 
between the state of New York and the province of Canada, by which 
the government of each agreed reciprocally to deliver up the citizens 
or subjects of the other against whom grand juries had found a bill, and 
who had sought refuge within the territories of the other. It happened 
that a slave had escaped from his master in New York, and had got to 
Canada. To facilitate his escape, he rode a horse of his master's for a part 
of the way, but turned him back on reaching the frontier. The author- 
ides of New York well knew that England would not give up a run- 
away slave, and that as they could not claim him under the treaty, they 
therefore had a bill of indictment against him, before a New York 
grand jury for stealing the horse, though it was clear the animus fur- 
andi was wanting. The grand jury, however, found a true bill against 
him for the felony, and he was claimed under the treaty. The governor, 
under such circumstances refused to give him up until he had consulted 
the government in England. He (Lord Campbell) was consulted, and 
gave it as his opinion that the man ought not to be given up, as the 
true bill, where no felony had been committed, did not briug the case 
within the treaty. The man was not given up, and there the matter 
rested. This, he repeated, showed the necessity of the greatest caution 
where reciprocal rights of surrender were granted between states. 

It is not to be presumed that the executive of this state would know- 



A.D. 18421 HISTORY OF THE CHUKOH. 179 

ingly, lend his aid in dragging one of our citizens, who is not a fugitive 
from justice, into a foreign state for trial. The governor has undoubt- 
edly been misled by the evasive affidavit which accompanied the 
requisition. 

I would advise that Mr. Smith procure respectable and sufficient 
affidavits to prove beyond all question, that he was in the state and not 
in Missouri, at the time the crime with which he is charged was com- 
mitted, and upon these affidavits, apply to the governor to counter- 
mand the warrant he has issued for his arrest. 

if he should refuse so to do, I am clearly of the opinion that, upon 
the above state of facts, the supreme court will discharge him upon 
habeas corpus. 

Eespectfully your obedient servant, 
Justin Butte rfi eld. 

The feregoing letter of Mr. Butterfield (United States' 
attorney for the district of Illinois,) shows, in a very 
lucid manner, what our rights and privileges are, pertain- 
ing to the habeas corpus, and accords with the opinion 
of every intelligent man, — the opinions of ex-Governor 
Boggs, Governor Reynolds, of Missouri, and Governor 
Carlin, to the contrary, notwithstanding. 



180 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1842 



CHAPTER X. 

TEMPLE AFFAIRS — THE PROPHET'S ADDRESS TO "NEW- 
COMERS"— CITY COUNCIL'S ACTIONS AS TO WRITS OF 
HABEAS CORPUS. 

Friday, October 21, 1842. — This evening I returned, in 
company with John D. Parker, to Father Taylor's, judg- 
ing it wisdom to keep out of the way of my enemies a 
while longer at least, although all is peace and quiet, and 
a prospect that my enemies will not trouble, me much 
more at present. 

Sunday, 23. — This day the Temple committee laid 
before the Saints the propriety and advan- 

Temporary n • i m 

Floor m the - tages of laying a temporary floor in the Tem- 
ple, that the brethren might henceforth meet 
in the Temple to worship, instead of meeting in the 
Grove. This was my instructions, and the Saints seemed 
to rejoice at this privilege very much. 

Monday, 24. — Printing office took fire, which was 
extinguished with difficulty. 

Tuesday, 25. — Ship Emerald sailed from Liverpool 
with 250 Saints for New Orleans. 

Friday, 28. — Soon after daylight this morning, I 
returned home again to visit my family. I found Emma 
worse; the remainder of the family well. In the afternoon I 
rode out into the city and took a little exercise. From 
the appearance of things abroad, we are encouraged to 
believe that my enemies will not trouble me much more 
at present. 

This day the brethren finished laying the temporary 
floor, and seats in the Temple, and its appearance is 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 181 

truly pleasant and cheering. The exertions of the breth- 
ren during the past week to accomplish this thing are 
truly praiseworthy. 

Saturday, 29. — About ten in the forenoon I rode up 
and viewed the Temple. I expressed my satisfaction at 
the arrangements, and was pleased with the progress 
made in the sacred edifice. After conversing 

° The Prophet 

with several of the brethren, and shaking at the Tem- 

pie 

hands with numbers who were very much 
rejoiced to see their Prophet again, I returned home; but 
soon afterwards went over to the store, where a number 
of brethren and sisters were assembled, who had arrived 
this morning from the neighborhood of New York, Long 
Island, &c. After Elders Taylor, Woodruff, and Samuel 
Bennett had addressed the brethren and sisters, I spoke 
to them at considerable length, showing them the proper 
course to pursue, and how to act in regard to making pur- 
chases of land, &c. 

I showed them that it was generally in consequence of 
the brethren disregarding or disobeying counsel that they 
became dissatisfied and murmured : and many mi n , , 

' The Prophet's 

when they arrived here, were dissatisfied with Advice to 
the conduct of some. of the Saints, because 
everything was not done perfectly right, aud they get 
angry, and thus the devil gets advantage over them to 
destroy them. I told them I was but a man, and they 
must not expect me to be perfect ; if they expected per- 
fection from me, I should expect it from them; but if 
they would bear with my infirmities and the infirmities 
of the brethren, I would likewise bear with their infirm- 
ities. 

I told them it was likely I would have again to hide up 
in the woods, but they must not be discouraged, but build 
up the city, the Temple, &c. When my enemies take away 
my rights, I will bear it and keep out of the way; but if 
they take away your rights, I will fight for you. I blessed 
them and departed. 



182 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1842 

Dr. Willard Biekards returned to Nauvoo with his fam- 
ily, having visited most of the churches in 

Return of Dr. J ' ° 

Richards to the Eastern btates, and preached to them 
the necessity of building the Temple and 
gathering to this place, in obedience to the command- 
ment of God to His people. 

Sunday, 30. — The Saints met to worship on a tempor- 
ary floor, in the Temple, the walls of which were about 
four feet high above the basement; and notwithstanding 
its size, it was well filled. It had been expected that I 
would address them, but I sent word that I was so sick 
that I could not meet with them; consequently Elder John 
Taylor delivered a discourse. In the evening I went to 
visit the sick, &c. 

Monday, 31. — I rode out to my farm with my children, 
and did not return until after dark. 

Tuesday, Nov. 1, 1842. — I rode with Emma to the 
Temple for the benefit of her health. She is rapidly 
gaining. In the afternoon went to see Dr. Willard Rich- 
ards, who was very sick at Elder Woodruff's; afterwards, 
accompanied by my children and William 

Accident to 

the Prophet's Clayton, rode out towards the farm. When 
going down the hill, near Casper's the car- 
riage got over-balanced and upset. I was thrown some 
distance from the carriage, and all three of the children 
almost under it. I arose and enquired if any of the chil- 
dren were killed; but upon examination, there was no 
one seriously hurt. Frederick G. Williams had his cheek 
bruised, which was the worst injury received. 

It seemed miraculous how we escaped serious injury 
from this accident; and our escape could not be attributed 
to any other power than that of Divine Providence. I 
feel thankful to Gk>d for this instance of His kind and 
watchful care over His servant and family. 

The carriage was so much broken, we left it, and put- 
ting the children in Brother Stoddard's buggy, returned. In 
the evening I rode to the Temple with two of my children. 



A.D. 1842J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 183 

Wednesday, 2. — Spent this forenoon in removing the 
books, desk, &c, from rny store over to my house. In 
the afternoon rode out to my farm, and spent the time 
plowing, &c. 

Thursday, 3. — Rode out with Emma to the Temple. 

Friday, 4, — Eode out with Lorin Walker to examine 
his timber north of the city. 

Brothers Hyrum Smith and Wilson Law returned from 
their mission to the East. They bring very Return of Hy _ 
good reports concerning the public feeling, and\v?ison 
and say that John C. Bennett's expose has Law - 
done no hurt, but much good. 

President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball George 
A. Smith and Amasa Lyman, of the Twelve, also returned 
from their missions, and brought a similar re- 

__ !-,..,,„ Return of 

port. They had visited the conferences ac- Brigham 
cording to the notice which they had pub- 
lished on September J 2th, and had also visited many of 
the principal places in the state, delivered addresses to 
the people, and found a friendly feeling in most cases, 

Saturday, 5. — I tarried at home on account of the rain. 
I received a visit from some Indians, who were accom- 
panied by a negro interpreter. They expressed great 
friendship for the Mormon people, and said they were 
their friends. After considerable conversation and par- 
taking of victuals, they departed, evidently highly grati- 
fied with their visit. 

I told Dr. Richards the Mississippi would be frozen over 
in less than a month, although the weather was then 
warm and pleasant. 

Sunday, 6. — At home all day. My brother Hyrum 
preached. Afternoon received a visit from Dr. Willard 
Richards. 

Monday, 7. — Spent the forenoon in council with 
Brother Hyrum Smith and some of the Twelve, and in 
giving instructions concerning the contemplated journey 
to Springfield on the 15th December next, and what 



184 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

course ought to be pursued in reference to the case of 
The Prophet's bankruptcy. In the afternoon Calvin A. War- 
SthCaWnA. ren > Esq., arrived, and I called upon some of 
warren. ^ Twelve and others to testify before 

Squire Warren what they knew in reference to the 
appointment of trustee-in-trust, &c, showing also from 
the records that I was authorized by the Church to pur- 
chase and hold property in the name of the Church, and 
that I had acted in all things according to the counsel 
given to me. 

Tuesday , 8. -This afternoon called upon Windsor P. 
Lyons and others to make affidavits concerning the frauds 
and irregularities practiced in the post office 
Affairs at in Nauvoo. A petition was drawn and signed 

by many, and sent by Squire Warren to 
Judge Young, [U. S. senator from Illinois] with a re- 
quest that the latter should present the same to the post- 
master general, and use his influence to have the present 
postmaster removed, and a new one appointed. I was 
recommended for the appointment. In the afternoon 
officiated in court as mayor at my house. 

Wednesday, 9.— Paid E. Rhodes $436.93, it being the 
amount of three notes due for the north-west quarter of 
Sec. 9, 6 N. 8 W., and presided in city council, a special 
meeting to investigate the writ of habeas corpus. 

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10, 11, 12. — Presided 
at adjourned session of the city council at my house. 

Sunday, 13. — I was at home through the day. 

Letter of George D, Watt, Reporting Arrival of Emigrants, 

Ship Sidney, New Orleans, November 13, 1842. 
Dear Brother. — We have had a passage of fifty-six days— fine 
weather — with a kind captain and crew, who allowed us every reason- 
able privilege. There have been five deaths out of the company, and 
one sailor who fell from the yard arm and was killed. Brother Yates 1 
eldest child, Sister Cannon, Brother Browne's child, and two children 
belonging to a man not in the Church. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 185 

We stuck upon the bar at the mouth of the river, thirty-four hours. 
About two hours after we got off, the Medford came on the bar, where 
she stuck thirty hours. We landed here on the 11th instant, and the 
Medford arrived today, 13th. She lies about ten yards from us. They 
have had two deaths. Upon the whole, a good passage. 

We have taken one of the largest and best steamboats in this port. 
We pay two and a half dollars per head, and twenty-five cents per cwt. 
above the weight allowed each person, which is one hundred pounds. 
We are all going up together. 

Yours truly, 

George D. Watt. 

Monday, 14. — Presided at city council, when was 
passed the following " Ordinance regulating the proceed- 
ings on writs of habeas corpus." 

Writ of Habeas Corpus. 

Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the city council of the city of Nauvoo, 
that if any person or persons shall be or stand committed or detained 
for any criminal or supposed criminal matter, it shall and may be law- 
ful for him, her, or them to apply to the municipal court, when in 
session, or to the clerk thereof in vacation, for a writ of habeas corpus; 
which application shall be in writing and signed by the prisoner, or 
some person on his, her, or their behalf, setting forth the facts concern- 
ing his, her, or their imprisonment, and in whose custody he, she, or 
they are detained; and shall be accompanied by a copy of the warrant, 
or warrants of commitments, or an affidavit that the said copy had 
been demanded of the person or persons in whose custody the prisoner 
or prisoners are detained, and by him or them refused or neglected 
to be given. The said court or clerk to whom the application shall be 
made, shall forthwith award the said writ of habeas corpus, unless it 
shall appear from the petition itself, or from the documents annexed, 
that the party can neither be discharged nor admitted to bail, nor in 
any other manner relieved, which said writ shall be issued under the 
hand of the clerk, and the seal of the court; which seal may be a writ- 
ten one, until another shall be obtained, and shall be in the following 
words, to wit: "Seal of the Municipal Court of the city of Nauvoo." 

State of Illinois, | 
City of Nauvoo, J ss * 

lo the People of the State of Illinois, to the Marshal of said City, Greet- 
ing: 
Whereas application has been made before the municipal court of 



186 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.JD 1842 

said city that the body (or bodies) of A B, &c, is or are in the custody 
of C D, &c, of &c, these are therefore to command, the said C D, &., 
of &c, to safely have the body (or bodies) of said A B, &c, in his- 
custody, detained, as it is said, together with the day and cause of his 
(her or their) caption and detention by whatsoever name the said A y 
B,&c, may be known or called, before the municipal court of said city, 
forthwith to abide such order as the said court shall make in his behalf; 
and further, if the said C D, &c, or other person or persons having 
said A B, &c, in custody shall refuse, or neglect to comply with the 
provisions of this writ, you, the marshal of said city, or other person 
authorized to serve the same, are hereby required to arrest the person 
or persons so refusing or neglecting to comply as aforesaid, and bring 
him or them, together with the person or persons in his or their 
custody, forthwith before the municipa court aforesaid, to be dealt 
with according to law; and herein fail not to bring this writ with you. 

Witness, J. S,, clerk of the municipal court at Nauvoo, this day 

of in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and 

forty J. S., Clerk. 

And [this shall] be directed to the city marshal, and shall be served by 
delivering a copy thereof to the person or persons in whose custody the 
prisoner or prisoners are detained, and said writ shall be made return- 
able forthwith, and the form and substance thereof, as herein set forth, 
and be taken and considered as part and parcel of this ordinance. To 
the intent that no officer, sheriff, jailer, keeper, or other person, or per- 
sons, upon whom such writ shall be served, may pretend ignorance 
thereof, every such writ and copy thereof served shall be endorsed with 
these words, "By the Habeas Corpus Act; " and whenever the said writ 
shall by any person be served upon the sheriff, jailor, keeper, or other 
person or persons whomsoever, holding said prisoner or prisoners, or 
being brought to him or them, or being served upon any of his or their 
under-officers or deputies at the jail, or place where the prisoner or 
prisoners are detained, he or they, or some of his or their under-officers 
or deputies shall, upon payment or tender of the charges of bringing 
the said prisoner or prisoners, to be ascertained by the court awarding 
the said writ, and endorsed thereon, not exceeding ten cents per mile; 
and upon sufficient security given to pay the charges of carrying him, 
her, or them back, if he, she, or they shall be remanded, make return 
of such writ, and bring or cause to be brought, the body or bodies of 
the prisoner or prisoners before the municipal court forthwith, and cer- 
tify the true cause of his, her, or their imprisonment, unless the com- 
mitment of such person or persons shall be to the county jail in Han- 
cock county, in which case the time shall be prolonged till five days, 
after the delivery of the writ as aforesaid, and not longer. 



A.D. 18421 HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. 187 

Provided, nevertheless, that in ease any person or persons may at any 
time hereafter be taken and lodged in the city or county jail, under any 
writ or process, as provided by the city charter of the city of Nauvoo 
and shall require a writ of habeas corpus to issue to bring him, her, or 
them before the municipal court of said city, said writ shall issue to 
'bring him, her, or them before said court, and be directed to the city 
marshal to be served upon the person or persons in whose custody such 
prisoner or prisoners may then be detained. 

Sec. 2. Where any person or persons not being committed or detained 
for any criminal or supposed criminal matter shall be confined or re- 
strained of his, her, or their liberty, under any color or pretense what- 
ever, he, she, or they may apply for a writ of habeas corpus, as afore- 
said, which application shall be in writing, signed by the party, or some 
person on his, her, or their behalf, setting forth the fads concerning 
his, her, or their imprisonment, and wherein the illegality of such im- 
prisonment consists, and in whose custody he, she or they are detained; 
which application or petition shall be verified by the oath or affirmation 
of the party applying, or some other person on his, her, or their behalf. 
If the confinement or restraint is by virtue of any judicial writ or pro- 
cess, or order, a copy thereof shall be annexed thereto, or an affidavit 
made that the same had been demanded and refused: the same proceed- 
ings shall thereupon be had in all respects, as are directed in the pre- 
ceding section, and any officer, person, or persons, knowing that he or 
they have an illegal writ, or not having any writ, who shall attempt 
through any false pretest to take or intimidate any of the inhabitants of 
this city, through such pretext, shall forfeit for every such offense a sum 
not exceeding one thousand dollars, nor less than fi>e hundred dollars, 
or in case of failure to pay such forfeiture, to be imprisoned not more 
than twelve months nor less than six months. 

Sec. 3. Upon the return of the writ of habeas corpus, a day shall be 
set for the hearing of the cause of imprisonment or detainer, not ex- 
ceeding five days thereafter, unless the prisoner or prisoners shall re- 
quest a longer time. The said prisoner or prisoners may deny any of 
the material facts set forth in the return, or may allege any fact to show 
either that the imprisonment or detention is unlawful, or that he, she, 
or they, is or are then entitled to his, her, or their discharge, which 
allegations or denials shall be made on oath. The said return may be 
amended, by leave of the court, before or after the same is filed, as also 
may all suggestions made against it, that thereby material facts may be 
ascertained. The said court shall proceed in a summary way to settle 
the said facts, by hearing the testimony and arguments, as well of all 
parties interested civilly, if any there be, as of the prisoner or prisoners, 
and the persons or person who holds him, her, or them in custody, and 



188 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH (A.D. 1842 

shall dispose of the prisoner or prisoners as the case may require. If 
it appear that the prisoner or prisoners are in custody by virtue of pro- 
cess from any court, legally constituted, he, she, or they can be dis- 
charged for the following causes: — First, where the court has exceeded 
the limits of its jurisdiction, either as to the matter, place, sum, person, 
or persons; second, where, though the original imprisonment was law- 
ful, yet by some act, omission, or event which has subsequently taken 
place, the party has become entitled to his, her, or their discharge; third, 
where the process is defective in some substantial form required by law; 
fourth, where the process though in proper form has been issued in a 
case, or under circumstances where the law does not allow process, or 
orders for imprisonment or arrest, to issue; fifth, where although in 
proper form the process has been issued or executed by a person or per- 
sons, either unauthorized to issue or execute the same, or where the 
person or persons having the custody of the prisoner or prisoners under 
such process is not the person or persons empowered by law to detain 
him, her, or them; sixth, where the process appears to have been ob- 
tained by false pretense or bribery; seventh, where there is no general 
law, nor any judgment, order, or decree of a court, to authorize the 
process, if in a civil suit, nor any conviction, if in a criminal proceeding. 
In all cases where the imprisonment is for a criminal or supposed crim- 
inal matter, if it shall appear to the said court that there is sufficient 
legal cause for the commitment of the prisoner or prisoners, although 
such commitment may have been informally made, or without due 
authority, or the process may have been executed by a person or per- 
sons not duly authorized, the court shall make a new commitment, in 
proper form, and directed to the proper officer or officers, or admit the 
party to bail, if the case be bailable. 

Sec. 4. When any person or persons shall be admitted to bail on 
habeas corpus, he, she, or they shall euter into recognizance with one 
or more securities in such sum as the court shall diiect, having regard 
to the circumstances of the prisoner or prisoners, and the nature of the 
offense, conditioned for his, her, or their appearance at the next circuit 
court to be holden in and for the county where the offense was com- 
mitted, or where the same is to be tried. Where the court shall admit 
to bail, or remand any prisoner or prisoners brought before the court, 
on any writ of habeas corpus, it shall be the duty of said court to bind 
all such persons as to declare any thing material to prove the offense, 
with which the prisoner or prisoners are charged by recognizance to 
appear at the proper court having cognizance of the offense, on the first 
day of the next term thereof, to give evidence thereof touching the said 
offense, and not to depart the said court without leave; which recogniz- 
ance so taken, together with the recognizance entered into by the pris- 



A.D. 1842 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 189 

oner or prisoners, when he, she, or they are admitted to bail, shall be 
certified and returned to the proper court, on the first day of the next 
succeeding term thereof. If any such witness or witnesses shall neglect 
or refuse to enter into a recognizance as aforefaid, when thereunto re- 
quired, it shall be lawful for the court to commit him, her, or them to 
jail until he, she, or they shall enter into such recognizance, or be other- 
wise discharged by due course of law. If the court shall neglect or 
refuse to bind any such witness or witnesses, prisoner or prisoners, by 
recognizance as aforesaid, or to return any such recognizance, when 
taken as aforesaid, the court shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor 
in office, and be proceeded against accordingly. 

Sec. 5. Where any prisoner or prisoners brought up on a habeas 
corpus shall be remanded to prison, it shall be the duty of the municipal 
court remanding him, her, or them to make out and deliver to the sheriff, 
or other person or persons to whose custody he, she, or they shall be 
remanded, an order in writing, stating the cause or causes of remanding 
him, her, or them. If such prisoner or prisoners shall obtain a second 
writ of habeas corpus, it shall be the duty of such sheriff or other per- 
son or persons upon whom the same shall be served, to return therewith 
the order aforesaid; and if it shall appear that the said prisoner or pris- 
oners were remanded for an offense adjudged not bailable, it shall be 
taken and received as conclusive, and the prisoner or prisoners shall 
be remanded without further proceedings. 

Sec. 6. It shall not be lawful for the municipal court, on a second 
writ of habeas corpus obtained by such prisoner or prisoners, to dis- 
charge the said prisoner or prisoners, if he, she, or they are proven 
guilty of the charges clearly and specifically charged in the warrant of 
commitment with a criminal offense; but if the prisoner or prisoners 
shall be found guilty, the municipal court shall only admit such prisoner 
or prisoners to bail, where the offense is bailable by law or ordinance, 
or remand him, her, or them to prison, where the offense is not bail- 
able; or being bailable, if such prisoner or prisoners shall fail to give the 
bail required. 

Sec. 7. No person or persons who have been discharged by order of 
the municipal court on a habeas corpus, shall be again imprisoned, re- 
strained, or kept in custody for the same cause, unless he, she, or thoy, 
be afterwards indicted for the same offense, or unless by the legal order 
or process of the municipal court wherein he, she, or they are bound 
by recognizance to appear, the following shall not be deemed to be the 
same cause. First, if after a discharge for defect of proof, or any 
material defect in the commitment in a criminal case, the prisoner or 
prisoners should be again arrested upon sufficient proof and committed 
by legal process, for the same offense; second, if in a civil suit the 



190 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1842 

party or parties have been discharged for any illegality in the judgment 
or process, and are afterwards imprisoned by legal process, for the same 
cause of actiou; third, generally whenever the discharge has been 
ordered on account of the non-observance of any of the forms required 
by law, the party or parties may be a second time imprisoned, if the 
cause be legal and the forms required by law observed. 

Sec. S. If any person or persons shall be committed for a criminal 
matter, in case of the absence of a witness or witnesses whose testimony 
may be considered to be of importance in behalf of the people, the 
municipal court may adjourn from time to time at its discretion, provided 
they decide upon the case within thirty days, if it shall appear by oath 
or affirmation that the witness or witnesses for the people of the state 
are absent, such witness or witnesses being mentioned by name, and 
the court shown wherein their testimony is material. 

Sec. 9. Any person or persons being committed to the city or county 
jail, as provided in the Charter in the City of Nauvoo, or in the custody 
of an officer, sheriff, jailer, keeper, or other person or persons, or his 
or their under-officer or deputy, for any criminal or supposed criminal 
matter, shall not be removed from said prison or custody into any 
prison or custody, unless it be by habeas corpus, or by an oi'der of the 
municipal court, or in case of sudden fire, infection, or other necessities; 
if any person or persons shall, after such commitment as aforesaid, make 
out, sign, or countersign any warrant or warrants for such removal, 
then he or they shall forfeit to the prisoner or prisoners aggrieved a 
sum not exceeding five hundred dollars, to be recovered by the prisoner 
or prisoners aggrieved, in the manner hereinafter mentioned. 

Sec. 10. If any member of the municipal court, or the clerk of said 
court shall corruptly refuse or neglect to issue writ or writs of habeas 
corpus when legally applied to in a case where such writ or writs may 
lawfully issue, or who shall for the purpose of oppression unreasonably 
delay the issuing of such writ or writs, shall for every such offense for- 
feit to the prisoner or prisoners, party or parties aggrieved, a sum not 
less than five hundred dollars and not exceeding one thousand dollars, 
and be imprisoned for six months. 

Sec. 11. If any officer, sheriff, jailer, keeper, or other person or per- 
sons upon whom any such writ shall be served, shall neglect or refuse 
to make the returns as aforesaid, or to bring the body of- the prisoner 
or prisoners according to the command of the said writ within the time 
required by this ordinance, all and every such officer, sheriff, jailer, 
keeper, or other person or persons shall be guilty of a contempt of the 
municipal court who issued said writ: whereupon the said court may 
and shall issue an attachment against said officer, sheriff, jailer, keeper, 
or other person or persons, and cause him or them to be committed to 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 191 

the city or county jail as provided for by the city charter of the city of 
Nauvoo, there to remain without bail or mainprize, until he or they 
shall obey the said writ; such officer, sheriff, jailer, keeper, or other 
person or persons shall also forfeit to the prisoner or prisoners, party 
or parties aggrieved, a sum not exceeding one thousand dollars, and not 
less than five hundred dollars. 

Sec. 12. Any person or persons having a prisoner or prisoners in his 
or their custody, or under his or their restraint, power, or control, for 
whose relief a writ or writs of habeas corpus is issued, who, with intent 
to avoid the effect of such writ or writs, shall transfer such person or 
persons to the custody of, or place him, her, or them under the control 
of any other person or persons, or shall conceal him, her, or them, or 
change the place of his, her, or their confinement, with intent to avoid 
the operation of such writ or writs, or with intent to remove him, her, 
or them out of the state, shall forfeit for every such offense one thousand 
dollars, and may be imprisoned not less than one 3-ear, nor more than 
five years. In any prosecution for the penalty incurred under this sec- 
tion, it shall not be necessary to show that the writ or writs of habeas 
corpus had issued at the time of the removal, transfer, or concealment 
therein mentioned, if it be proven that the acts therein forbidden were 
done with the intent to avoid the operation of such writ or writs. 

Sec. 13. Any sheriff, or his deputy, any jailer or coroner having cus- 
tody of any prisoner or prisoners committed on any civil or criminal 
process, of any court or magistrate, who shall neglect to give such pris- 
oner or prisoners a copy of the process, order, or commitment, by 
virtue of which he, she, or they are imprisoned, within six hours after 
demand made by said prisoner or piisoners, or any one on his, her, or 
their behalf, shall forfeit five hundred dollars. 

Sec. 14. Any person, knowing that another has been discharged, by 
order of the municipal court, on a habeas corpus, shall, contrary to 
the provisions of this ordinance, arrest or detain him or her again for 
the same cause which was shown on return of such writ, shall forfeit 
one thousand dollars for the first offense, and two thousand dollars for 
every subsequent one. 

Sec. 15. All the pecuniary forfeitures incurred under this ordinance 
shall be and inure to the use of the party for whose benefit the writ of 
habeas corpus was issued, and shal be .^od for and recovered with 
costs by the city attorney, in the name of the city by information, and 
the amount when recovered shall, without any deduction, be paid to the 
parties entitled thereto. 

Sec. 1G. In any action or suit for any offense against the provisions 
of this ordinance, the defendant or defendants may plead the general 
issue, and give the special matter in evidence. 



192 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. I A. JL>. 1842 

Sec. 17. The recovery of said penalties shall be no bar to a civil suit 
for damages. 

Sec. IS. The municipal court, upon issuing a writ of habeas corpus, 
may appoint any suitable person to serve the same, other than the mar- 
shal, and shall endorse the appointment on the back of said»writ. 

Sec. 19. This ordinance to take effect and be in force from and after 
its passage, any act heretofore to the contrary thereof in any wise not- 
withstanding. Passed November 14, 1842. 

Joseph Smith, Mayor. 
James Sloan, Recorder. 

Many other bills were discussed on this and previous 

days. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 193 



CHAPTER XI. 

PROPHET'S RETIREMENT FROM EDITORSHIP OF "TIMES AND 
SEASONS' 7 — PROGRESS OF WORK ON THE TEMPLE — 
DIVISION OF NAUVOO INTO TEN WARDS — WM. SMITH IN 
THE ILLINOIS LEGISLATURE— GOVERNOR FORD ON MISS- 
OURI'S DEMAND FOR THE PROPHET. 

Tuesday, November 15, 1842. — About home. Wrote for 
the Times and Seasons the following:' 

VALEDICTORY. 

I beg leave to inform the subscribers of the limes and Seasons that it 
. is impossible for me to fulfill the arduous duties of the editorial depart- 
ment any longer. The multiplicity of other business that daily devolves 
upon me renders it impossible for me to do justice to a paper so widely 
circulated as the Times and Seasons. I have appointed Elder John 
Taylor, who is less encumbered and fully competent to assume the 
responsibilities of that office, and I doubt not that he will give satisfac- 
tion to the patrons of the paper. As this number commences a new 
volume, it also commences his editorial career. 

Joseph Smith. 

Elder Taylor proceeded to liis duties as editor. 

Elder Bradley Wilson died suddenly in his 74 ch year. 
He received the gospel in Ohio, removed his family to 
Missouri, and was driven to Nauvoo in 1839. He has left 
seven sons and thirty-nine grand-children residing in Nau- 
voo. 

Wednesday, 16. — About home. In the evening started 
on a journey to the counties north, in company with John 
D. Parker. 

Thursday, 17. — There was a severe snow storm, and 
Elder Alpheus Harmon (who was just returning from a 

13 Vol. V. 



194 H1ST0KY OF THE CHURCH. lA.D. 1842 

mission), and another man. were frozen to death on the 
prairie between Nauvoo and Carthage. The Mississippi 
was frozen over, which fulfilled my prophecy of the 5th 
instant. 

Monday, 21. — A Council of the Twelve, namely, Brig- 
ham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Wilford Woodruff, John 
Taylor, George A. Smith, Amasa Lyman, and 

Vote to Sus- . . 

pend the Mil- Willard Richards, assembled at the house of 
Elder Heber C. Kimball, in Nauvoo, and 
decided by unanimous acclamation that the printing of the 
Millennial Star and all other publications in England re- 
lating to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 
be suspended, on the return of Elder Parley P. Pratt from 
that country, until further instruction from the quorum ; 
and that the foregoing minutes be forwarded to Elder Pratt 
or to the editor of the Star, which was done by letter from 
the president and clerk of the council. 

Tuesday, 22. — I arrived at homo, after a pleasant out- 
ing, in good health and spirits. 

Wednesday, 23. — At home all day. 

Thursday, 24. — By report of the papers, the island of 

Madeira was visited by a dreadful storm. The summer 

was hot and weather fine till the 15th, when 

Disaster on ' 

the island of the ram commenced falling heavily and con- 

J\l Eld 6 1 1" £L 

tinued to the 24th. At one o'clock in the 
afternoon the water fell in torrents, the sky became dark, 
the streets in the capital, became inundated, and the 
affrighted inhabitants in town and country fled to the 
mountains. Upwards of two hundred houses were de- 
stroyed at Punchal, and much corn and wine. The damage 
to lives, houses, and crops on the island, and boats in the 
harbors was incalculable. 

Saturday, 26. — At home in the morning. At ten, met 
in city council, which resolved that the inscription for the 
seal to be procured .for the municipal court of this city 
shall consist of a circle, including the words "Municipal 
Court, City of Nauvoo," within which is to be a book 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 195 

circled with rays, on which is to be inscribed the words 
" Constitution and Charter." 
Wrote as follow : — 

Letter of the Prophet to H. P. HotchJciss — Land Purchase Contract 

Considered. 

Nauvoo, November 26, 1842. 
Horace R. HotcliJciss, ICsq. 

Dear Sir: — Yours of the 8th instant to Sidney Rigdon has been re- 
ceived; and, in consequence of his not knowing anything concerning 
the matters therein mentioned, or being in any way connected or inter- 
ested in my affairs, he of course, has handed the letter to me, which I 
shall proceed to answer. 

And, sir, permit me to say, on the subject of the deal between my- 
self, as Trustee-in-Trust for the Church of Latter-day Saints, and you, 
that I am as anxious as ever to have the contract continue good between 
us, and to meet the obligations specified in the contract. I am not, 
neither have I ever been, wishful to shrink from it in any manner what- 
ever, but intend to make payments as fast as my circumstances will 
admit. 

But, sir, you are not unacquainted with the extreme : hardness of the 
times and the great scarcity of money, which put it out of my power to 
meet all the payments as they fell due, and which has been the only 
cause of any failure on my part; and should you feel disposed not to press 
the payments, but offer a lenity equivalent to the state of the times, then, 
sir, I shall yet endeavor to make up the payments as fast as possible, 
and consider the contract as still good between us. 

I would here say that when I found it necessary to avail myself of the 
benefits of the bankrupt law, I knew not but that the law required of 
me to include you amongst the list of my creditors, notwithstanding the 
nature of the contract between us. This explains the reason of my 
doing so. 

I have since learned, from a decision of the judge of the supreme 
court, that if was not necessary, and that the [bankrupt] law has no 
jurisdiction over such a contract. Consequently, as I have. before stated, 
I am disposed to' hold it, provided you will not press the payments . 
Under these circumstances, I consider it necessary to give you the iu- 
formation required in your letter, in regard to the number and kind of 
houses on the land, &c. 

I shall expect to hear from you again .soon. In regard to your having 
written to me some few weeks ago, I will observe that I have received 
no communication from you for some months back. If you wrote to 
me, the letter has been broken open and detained, no doubt, as has 



196 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

been the case with a great number of letters from my friends of late, 
and especially within the last three months. 

Few if any letters for me can get through the post office in this place, 
and more particularly letters containing money, and matters of much 
importance. I am satisfied that Sidney Rigdon and others connected 
with him have been the means of doing incalculable injury, not only to 
myself, but to the citizens in general; and, sir, under such a state of 
things, you will have some idea of the difficulties I have to encounter, 
and the censure I have to bear through the unjust conduct of that man 
and others, whom he permits to interfere with the post office business. 
Having said so much, I must close for the present. 

You will hereby understand my feelings upon the subject and the 
reasons of the course I have hitherto pursued. 

With sentiments of due respect, I remain, as ever, yours respectfully, 

Joseph Smith. 

P. S. — Should it suit you better, I am ready on my part to renew 
the contract, and would prefer it. 

J. S. 

In the evening went to see Brighani Young, in company 

with Dr. Richards. He was suddenly and severely attacked 

by disease, with strong symptoms of apoplexy. 

{Sudden 111- ■; . ' ? . J t ^ _ , - , , 

ness of Brig- We immediately administered to him by lay- 
ing on of hands and prayer, accompanied with 
the use of herbs. Profuse vomiting and purging followed, 
which were favorable indications. Although few so vio- 
lently attacked ever survive long, yet the brethren were 
united in faith, and we had firm hopes of his recovery. 

Sunday, 27. — At home, except visiting President Young, 
who remained extremely sick. 

Monday, 28. — At home all day. Charges of an unequal 

distribution of provisions, giving more iron and steel tools 

to Reynolds Cahoon's sons than to others, 

Temple J ' 

structure giving short measure or wood to Father Hun- 

tington, also letting the first course of stone 
around the Temple to the man who would do it for the 
least price, &c, having been instituted by the stonecutters 
against the Temple committee, — viz., Cahoon and Hig- 
bee, I requested the parties to appear at my house this 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 197 

day to have the difficulties settled by an investigation be- 
fore myself and Counselor William Law. President JELyrum 
Smith acted as counsel for the defendants, and Elder 
Henry Gr. Sherwood for the accusers. The hearing of 
testimony lasted until four o'clock, at which time the 
meeting adjourned for half an hour. On coming together 
again, President Hyrum addressed the brethren at some 
length, showing the important responsibility of the com- 
mittee, also the many difficulties they had to contend with. 
He advised the brethren to have charity one with another, 
and be united, &c, &c. Elder Sherwood replied to Pres- 
ident Hyrum's remarks. President Hyrum explained 
some remarks before made. Elder William Law made a 
few pointed remarks, after which I gave my decision, 
which was that the committee stand-in their place as be- 
fore. I likewise showed the brethren that I was respon- 
sible to the state for a faithful performance of my office 
as sole trustee-in-trust, &c, and the Temple committee 
were responsible to me and had given bonds to me, to the 
amount of $12,000, for a faithful discharge of all duties 
devolving upon them as a committee, &c. The trial did 
not conclude until about nine o'clock in the evening. 

Tuesday, 29. — In council with Brother Hyrum, Willard 
Richards, and others, concerning bankruptcy. Afternoon, 
attended court at the house of Mr. Hunter, grocer, before 
Alderman Spencer, for slander. I forgave Hunter the 
judgment, but he was fined $10 for contempt of court. 

Wednesday, 30. — Morning, in counsel in the large as- 
sembly room preparing evidence in the case of bankruptcy. 
Afternoon, had Amos Davis brought before the municipal 
court for slander; but, in consequence of the informality 
of the writ drawn by Squire Daniel H. Wells, I was non- 
suited. 

A severe storm of snow, rain and wind is reported to 
have been experienced at Boston this day and evening, 
doing much damage to the ships and wharves. 

Thursday, December 1, 1842.— Emma was sick, attend- 



198 HISTOKY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1842 

ance upon her occupied some of my time. Visited George 
A. Smith and Brigham Young, who were sick. Called at 
Mr. Angel's, in company with Elder Richards, to give 
some counsel concerning a sick sister. Called on William 
W. Phelps to get the historical documents, &c; after 
which I commenced reading and revising history. 



Extract oj a Letter from Orrin Porter Rockwell, superscribed to Newel K. 

Whitney ', dated Philadelphia, December 1, 1842, whither he had gone 

to escape the hands oj those loho sought his life in Missouri, 

Dear Brother Joseph Smith: — I am requested by our friend Orrin 
Porter [Rockwell] to drop a few lines informing you that he is in this 
place. His health is good, but his spirits are depressed, caused by his be- 
ing unable to obtain employmentof any- kind. He has applied in different 
parts of the city and country, but all without success, as farmers can 
get persons to work from sunrise till dark for merely what they eat. 
He is most anxious to hear from you, and wishes you to see his mother 
and the children and write all the particulars, how matters and things are, 
and what the prospects are. I pity him from the bottom of my heart. 
His lot in life seems marked with sorrow, bitterness and care. He is a 
noble, generous friend. But you know his worth: any comments from 
me would be superfluous. He will wait in this place until he hears from 
you. Please write immediately, as it will be a source of great comfort 
to him to hear [from you] . 

If Joseph is not at home, Brother Whitney will be kind enough to 
write. He says every other one he has come across has been afraid of 
their shadows, but he watches them well. He comes to see me every 
day, and I keep him a close prisoner! But he does not complain of my 
cruelty, or being hard-hearted, but, when with me, seems resigned to 
whatever punishment I may see proper to inflict: but he takes it in good 
part. Answer this as soon as received. 

Yours truly, 

S. Armstrong, 

for Orrin Porter [Rockwell]. 

Friday, 2. — Sat as Mayor on trial of Amos Davis, who 
was fined in the sum of $25 for breach of city ordinance 
for selling spirits by the small quantity. In the evening, 
called on Elder Richards, and Bishop Whitney to take an 
appraisal of the printing office establishment, preparatory 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 199 

to a lease to Elders Taylor and Woodruff for the term of 
five years. 

Saturday, 3. — Called at the printing office several times. 
In the afternoon, attended the municipal court in the case 
of Amos Davis, for breach of city ordinance, &c. 

Sunday , 4. — The weather being very wet, I remained at 
home all day. 

The High Council of Nauvoo met, heard, accepted, and 
adopted the report of their committee for dividing the city 
into ten wards, as follows: — 

The First Ward is bounded on the north by the city 
boundary line, and on the south by Brattle street. 

The Second Ward is bounded on the north by Brattle 
street or the First Ward, and on the south by Carlos street 
or the Third Ward. 

The Third Ward is bounded on the north by Carlos 
street or the Second Ward, and on the south by Joseph 
street or the Fourth Ward. 

The Fourth Ward is bounded on the north by Joseph 
street or the Third Ward, and on the south by Cutler 
street or the Fifth Ward. 

The Fifth Ward is bounded on the north by Cutler street 
or the Fourth Ward, and on the south by Mulholland 
street. 

The Sixth Ward is bounded on the west by the Missis 
sippi river, and on the east by Main street or the Seventh 
Ward. 

The Seventh Ward is bounded on the west by Main 
street or the Sixth Ward, and on the east by Durfee street 
or the Eight Ward. 

The Eight Ward is bounded on the west by Durfee street 
or the Seventh Ward, and on the east by Robinson street 
or the Ninth Ward. 

The Ninth Ward is bounded on the west by Eobinson 
street or the Eight Ward, and on the east by Green street 
or the Tenth Ward. 



200 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

The Tenth Ward is bounded on the west by Green street 
or the Ninth Ward,, and on the east by the city boundary 
line. 

Monday, 5. — In the morning, attended in council with 
Brother Hyrum and others on bankruptcy, making an in- 
ventory of our property, and schedule of our liabilities, 
that we might be prepared to avail ourselves of the laws 
of the land as did others. Afternoon, had conversation 
with Brother Green. In the evening, attended the Masonic 
Lodge. 

Tuesday, 6. — Attended the trial of an appealed case of 
Amos Davis before the municipal court. Judgment con- 
firmed. 

Wednesday, 7. — Dined with Elder Orson Hyde and fam- 
ily. Elder Hyde has this day returned home from his 
mission to Jerusalem. His presence was truly gratifying. 
Spent the day with Elder Hyde and drawing wood. 

Thursday, 8. — Spent the day at home. Eeceived a visit 
from Elder Hyde and wife. 

This day, Thomas Ford, governor of Illinois, in his in- 
augural address to the Senate and House of Representa- 
tives, remarked that a great deal has been said 
dress of Gov- about certain charters granted to the people of 
Nauvoo. These charters are objectionable on 
many accounts, but particularly on account of the powers 
granted. The people of the state have become aroused 
to the subject, and anxiously desire that these charters 
should be modified so as to give the inhabitants of Nauvoo 
no greater privileges than those enjoyed by others of our 
fellow citizens. 

Friday, 9. — I chopped wood all day. My Br cither 
Hyrum started for Springfield to attend to his case of 
bankruptcy, with Benjamin Covey as witness. Willard 
Richards, William Clayton, Henry G. Sherwood, Peter 
Haws, Heber C. Kimball, Alpheus Cutler, and Reynolds 
Cahoon accompanied them to attend to my case, present 
testimony to the government that I was in Illinois at the 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 201 

time Boggs was shot — consequently could not have been 
a fugitive from the justice of Missouri, and thus procure 
a discharge from Governor Ford, on Governor Carlin's 
writ for my arrest. The weather was very cold, and the 
traveling tedious; yet my messengers traveled thirty-four 
miles, and stayed with my Brother Samuel Smith, who 
kept a public-house at Plymouth. 

Mr. Davis, of Bond county, introduced a Agitation as 

J ' to Nauvoo 

resolution to the house of Representatives at charters. 
Springfield, concerning the charter of Nauvoo, and urged 
its repeal. 

Mr. Hicks was in favor of having the state arms taken 
from the Mormons. 

Mr. Owen thought they had no more than their quota. 

[The arms referred to consisted of three cannon, six- 
pounders, and a few score of muskets, swords, and pistols, 
which were furnished by the United States to Illinois, for 
the supply of her militia for common defense, of which 
the Nauvoo Legion had received but a small portion of 
that to which it was entitled.] 

My Brother, William Smith, representative of Hancock 
county, colleague with Mr. Owen, made the following 
speech in the House, in reply to Mr. Davis: — 

Speech of William Smith, Brother of the Projjhet, on the Chartered Rights 

of Nauvoo, 

Mr. Speaker. — I beg the privilege of making a few remarks on this 
subject. This, sir, seems to be a question which has excited, to a very 
considerable extent, the attention of members who compose this honor- 
able body. But, Mr. Speaker, it does really appear to me that this 
is a question that has been gotten up quite prematurely; for I doubt 
not many members here have not yet had the opportunity of learning . 
what privileges are granted in the Nauvoo City Charter. 

The subject which the gentleman has raised is only an assumption. 
I doubt not that if the subject had been fairly investigated, aud 
weighed equally in the balance by every candid individual in the •com- 
munity, that prejudices of this kind would not have obtained such a 
hold upon the public mind. In the estimation of genuine democracy, 
the rights of the people of Nauvoo are just as sacred as those of any 



202 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [ A.D. 1842 

other people. The people that live there should have just the same 
privileges extended to them as are awarded to Springfield, Chicago, 
Quiney, or any other city in the state. 

It is true, indeed, that they have labored under many embarrass- 
ments. The public miud has been heated in regard to what was 
supposed to be their chartered privileges. But you, Mr. Speaker, are 
well aware that all the corporate privileges that they enjoy have been 
granted to them by a previous Legislature. Upon that occasion all 
that was done was not considered, by any, more than an act of justice 
towards them. They had no greater rights or privileges given them 
than were already enjoyed by the citizens of Quiney or Springfield. 
The people had chartered privileges iu both of those cities, and we 
have the same in Nauvoo. Our condition in that respect is not at all 
different from Chicago, Alton, and many other chartered cities in this 
state. It would be hardly worth while, Mr. Speaker, to detain either 
you or this honorable body by making many preliminary remarks in 
respect to our religion. This is a matter that cannot at all come 
under the purview of this legislature. 

I do not fancy myself placed here before a body of sectarians 
invested, in their own estimation, with authority to enact rules for the 
government or regulation of any sect upon matters of religion. I do 
not suppose that I stand in the presence of persons disposed to take 
away one «ingle religious ris:ht pertaining to the people among whom 
I dwell. 

But what could legislation in regard to the matter effect? What 
would it proved It would neither prove Joseph Smith to be a Christian 
nor that Tom Thumb came from the moon. It would prove nothing in 
reference to the principles of any body of religionists. But I do not 
feel it my prerogative to enter into a discussion of religious principles 
here. I know very well that the people called * 'Mormons" are thought 
to be a very strange people. I come right from among them, and you 
can all judge whether or not they seem to have the appearance of a 
strange animal of seven heads and ten horns. You can all decide for 
yourselves whether, from the appearance I present, I should be 
numbered among outcasts, or be ranked among human beings. 

One word further as to the chartered privileges. They have, as this 
honorable body is well aware, assembled a population of from five to 
ten or fifteen thousand inhabitants. It is in consequence of the privi- 
leges granted in their Charter that they have been induced to do this. 
Nauyoo is not, as some may erroneously suppose — a city composed 
entirely of Mormons. I can inform gentlemen that Methodists, 
Presbyterians, Baptists, Universaliaus, in short, many of the different 
kinds of religion, and even infidels may be found there; aud all these 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 203 

are tolerated there just as in any other community. A great many 
persons have gone to Nauvoo, and there invested their property. They 
are now engaged in the erection of buildings, which, when consum- 
mated will cost enormous sums of money. Bat should the Charter of 
that city be repealed, individuals who now consider themselves rising 
to wealth, in consequence of what has been done by a former legis- 
lature of this state, will be reduced to wretchedness and want. In that 
event property now worth three to ten thousand dollars will not be 
worth five hundred, or nothing in comparison to that amount. 

There is another point, Mr. Speaker, to which I would call your 
attention, and that is to the observations which have been made in 
regard to taking away from the city of Nauvoo the state arms. Well 
suppose that should be done, would that effect anything? They are 
now organized, and have, under existing laws drawn a certain portion 
of the public arms. In that wherein are they acting differently from 
any other citizens? They have not even that equal proportion of arms 
that they are entitled to by law. What would be the object in taking 
away the public arms from the militia of this state? . It surely cannot 
be believed that there is any danger of the Mormons breaking out 
and killing the people. There is no more danger of that than there is 
that five, six or a dozen old women and a few boys should do the same 
thing. Is this state to be carried by a hue-and-cry of that kind raised 
by politicians? I own that it is not the desigu of that people even so much 
as to molest a hair on the head of a single individual; but that, on the 
contrary, it is their intention in all things to conform to the Constitu- 
tion and laws of the land. If prejudices have been accumulating upon 
the public mind calculated to produce the expression that they are 
villains, such prejudices are entirely unfounded. And it is a great 
mistake to suppose the contrary. Those people consider themselves 
bound by the laws, and endeavor to obey them. Have they not, I 
would ask, contributed their portion towards replenishing your 
county and state revenues? Have thf^y ever refused to pay their taxes? 
Have they not always been both ready and willing to obey both the 
civil and military laws of this state? Where, then, is the necessity, 
that this honorable body should enact a law taking away from them 
their chartered pi'ivilegesl 

I will not, Mr. Speaker, detain you or this honorable body much 
longer. I am heartily sorry that a blow has been aimed at the chartered 
privileges of Nauvoo. I speak in defense of my constituents upon this 
occasion, feeling myself bound to do so, not by any former pledges, but 
by principle. I believe in defending the cause of the defenseless, as 
has already been remarked. All that we claim is equal rights and 
equal provisions. I would remark, for the satisfaction of my own feel- 



204 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

ings in this matter, that I was some little interested in the event of the 
last election. I then was engaged in the cause of Democracy, enlisted 
in the campaign of canvassing my county, and in consequence of the 
many prejudices, that were excited against the * 'Mormons," as they 
are called, I was placed under circumstances of most unparalleled embar- 
rassment; but still I thought it a favorable opportunity to unite the 
Democracy of the county. 

I know that considerable political capital has been made by the 
question of Mormonism and anti-Mormonism. Perhaps one thing that 
now contributes to that result is, that there are hints in the governor's 
message in regard to a repeal of the Nauvoo Charter. It is a circum- 
stance within my own knowledge that, previous to the last election in 
Hancock connty, some few individuals there made strong efforts to get 
our votes for the governor's election. By exertions made there, more 
than a thousand votes were cast for the governor by Mormon influ- 
ence; and since I have been here, a gentleman of opposite politics has 
said to me, "Now your governor is paying you off." 

I do not allude to this to wound the feelings of any person whatever- 
I do not consider that the recommendation of the governor was 
designed to effect the repeal of our Charter. All that we have to say 
is that we throw ourselves upon your mercy. As Democrats we ask for 
equal justice and equal rights. Give us those rights, and we are con- 
tent; without them we are deprived of that which was purchased by the 
blood of our fathers. 

Saturday, 10. — In this day's paper, William Smith 
gave his valedictory, resigning the editorship of the 
Wasp to Elder John Taylor. 

Tuesday, 13. — I continued to chop and hanl wood, and 
attend to my domestic concerns. My delegation arrived 
at Springfield about three o'clock this afternoon, and 
found the question of the repeal of the Nauvoo Charter in 
a high state of agitation in the legislature. 

Wednesday, 14. — My delegation at Springfield having 
made affidavit that I was in Illinois on the 6th of May 
last, and consequently could not have been concerned in 
the attempted assassination of ex- Governor Boggs, and 
also having prepared a petition to Governor Ford to 
revoke the writ and proclamation of Governor Carlin for 
my arrest, they called on Governor Ford at four in the 
afternoon, there were present by their selection: Dr. 



A.D. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 205 

Richards, Brothei Hyrum, Elders Sherwood and Clayton, 
in company with Mr. Butte rfield, United States district 
attorney, who read his communication to Sidney Rigdon, 
Esq., of the 20th October, my petition to revoke and 
countermand Governor Carlin's writ and proclamation, 
and the affidavit of Lilburn W. Boggs. 

Governor Ford, in reply, stated that he had no doubt 
but that the writ of Governor Carlin was illegal ; but he 
doubted as to his authority to interfere with the acts of 
his predecessor. He finally concluded that he would state 
the case before the judges of the supreme court at their 
council next day, and whatever they decided on shall be 
his decision. He then stated his reasons for recom- 
mending a repeal of the Charter, and said that he 
regi'etted that he had not recommended a repeal of all the 
charters in the state. 

Thursday, 15. — My delegates at Springfield continued 
to prosecute my discharge. On the 16th, Brother Hyrum 
received his discharge in case of bankruptcy; every 
arrangement was made with Mr. Butterfield, whereby I 
was equally entitled to a discharge, but was put off with 
a plea that he must write to the office at Washington 
before it could be granted. 

Saturday, 17. — 

Governor Ford to Joseph Smith — on the Missouri Requisition. 

Springfield, December 17, 1842. 
Dear Sir: — Your petition requesting me to rescind Governor 
Carlin's proclamation and recall the writ issued against you has been 
received and duly considered. I submitted your case and all the 
papers relating thereto to the judges of the Supreme Court, or at least 
to sis of them who happened to be present. They were unanimous in 
the opinion that the requisition from Missouri was illegal and insuf- 
ficient to cause your arrest, but were equals divided as to the pro- 
priety and justice of my interference with the acts of Governor Carlin. 
It being, therefore, a case of great doubt as to my power, and I not 
wishing, even in an official station, to assume the exercise' of doubtful 
powers, and inasmuch as you have a sure and effectual remedy in the 



206 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1842 

[courts, I have decided to decline interfering:. I can only advise that you 
submit to the laws and have a judicial investigation of your rights. If 
it should become necessary, for this purpose, to repair to Springfield, I 
do not believe that there will be any disposition to use illegal violence 
towards you;, and I would feel it my duty in your case, as in the case 
of any other person, to protect you with any necessary amount of force 
from mob violence whilst asserting your rights before the courts, going 
to and returning. 

I am most respectfully yours, 

Thomas Ford. 

Letter of Justin Butterfield — Opinion on Governor For<Vs Action. 

Springfield, December 17, 1842. 
Joseph Smith, Esq. 

Dear Sir: — I have heard the letter read which Governor Ford has 
written to you, and his statements are correct in relation to the opinion 
of the judges of the Supreme Court. The judges were unanimously 
of the opinion that you would be entitled to your discharge under a 
habeas corpus to be issued by the Supreme Court, but felt some deli- 
cacy in advising Governor Ford to revoke the order issued by Gover- 
nor Carlin. My advice is, that you come here without delay, and you 
do not ruu the least risk of not being protected while here, and of 
being discharged by the Supreme Court by habeas corpus. I have 
also the right to bring the case before the U. S. Court, now in session 
here; and there you are certain of obtaining your discharge. I will 
stand by you, and see you safely delivered from your arrest. 

Yours truly, 

J. BUTTERFIELD. 

Letter from James Adams, Advising the Prophet to Appear for Trial. 
City of Springfield, December 17, 1842. 
General J. Smith. 

My Son: — It is useless for me to detail facts that the bearer can 
tell. But I will say that it appears to my judgment that you had best 
make no delay in coming before the court at this place for a discharge 
under a habeas corpus. 

I am, &c., 

J. Adams. 

On receiving the foregoing letters, and Dr. Eichards 
having entered for the copyright of a map of the city of 
Nauvoo for Joseph Smith, in the clerk's office of the 



A.D. 1842 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 207 

District of Illinois, the brethren left Springfield for 
Nauvoo. 

Tuesday, 20. — Chopping and drawing wood with my 
own hands and team, as I had done mostly since the 
9th. President Young continued very sick. This after- 
noon the brethren arrived from Springfield and pre- 
sented me with Messrs. Ford, Butterfield and Adams 7 
letters, and general history of their proceedings, which 
was highly satisfactory. 

Elder Lorenzo D. Barnes died this morning at a quarter 
past three o'clock, at Bradford, England. The First 
He is the first Elder who has fallen in a for- ™ Vorefgn 
eign land in these last days. He had been Land - 
long connected with the Church, and had been dis- 
tinguished, both in his native land and in Great Britain, 
for his piety, and virtue. Bead correspondence between 
Dr. Richards and General James Arlington Beunett, and 
read German with Elder Orson Hyde. Brother Shearer 
inquired the meaning of the " little leaven which a women 
hid in three measures of meal." I replied, it alluded 
expressly to the last days, when there should be but little 
faith on the earth, and it should leaven the whole world; 
also there shall be safety in Zion and Jerusalem, and in 
the remnants whom the Lord our GocJ shall call. The 
three measures refer directly to the Priesthood, truth 
springing up on a fixed principle, to the three in the 
Grand Presidency, confining the oracles to a certain head 
on the principle of three. 

Friday, 23.— Wrote E. M. Young, Esq., U. S. Senator 
from Illinois, Washington City, that I would accept the 
proposals of John C. Walsh, and give him $2,500 for the 
north-west quarter of section 8, 6 north, 8 west, feaid 
land lying between my farm and the city. 

Saturday, 24. — At home afternoon. Eead and revised 
my history with Secretary Richards, and walked with him 
to see Sister Lyon, who was sick. Her babe died a few 
minutes before our arrival. From there we went to 



208 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1842 

Brother Sabine's to compute expense money for our 
journey to Springfield, having just borrowed $100 for 
that purpose. While there, Brother Richards asked if 
I wanted a wicked man to pray for me? I replied, 
Yes ; if the fervent, affectionate prayer of the righteous 
man availeth much, a wicked man may avail a little when 
praying for a righteous man. There is none good but 
One. The better a man is, the more his prayer will avail. 
Like the publican and the Pharisee, one was justified 
rather than the other, showing that both were justified in 
a degree. The prayer of a wicked man may do a righ- 
teous man good, when it does the one who prays no good. 

Sunday, 25. — I wrote to Orrin Wright, Jun., Phila- 
delphia. 

The Manchester, (England) conference met, number- 
ing 1,507 members, including thirty-three Elders, eighty- 
seven Priests, fifty-three Teachers, and nineteen Deacons 
under the presidency of Elder Thomas Ward. 



AD. 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 209 



CHAPTER XII. 

THE PROPHET AT SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS — HIS CONVERSATIONS 
AND INTERVIEWS — PROCEEDINGS ON WRIT OF HABEAS 
CORPUS BEFORE JUDGE POPE — RELEASE OF THE PROPHET 
BY ORDER OF THE COURT AND THE EXECUTIVE ORDER OF 
GOVERNOR FORD — OFFICIAL PAPERS IN THE CASE. 

Monday, December 26, 1842. — In the morning, held 
court, and I was afterwards arrested by General Wilson 
Law, on the proclamation of Governor Carlin, second Arrest 
and Elders Henry G. Sherwood; and William f/^t 
Clayton went to Carthage to obtain a writ of Affair - 
habeas corpus to take me before the court at Springfield. 
General Law gave me into the custody of Dr. Richards, with! 
whom I visited Sister Morey, who was severely afflicted. 
We prescribed lobelia for her, among other things, which 
is excellent in its place. I have learned the value of it by 
my own experience. It is one of the works of God, but, 
like the power of God, or any other good, it becomes an^ 
evil when improperly used. \ Brother Morey gave me a 
walking stick, the body of which was from the tooth of 
the sperm whale, and the top of whale ivory, with an 
interstice of mahogany. iOn my return home, I found my 
wife Emma sick. {S he_wa^ delivered of a son T which did 
net-survive its-hirtlu 

The Herefordshire conference (England) under the presi- 
dency of Elder William Kay, met at Col wall, numbering 
eight hundred and forty-four members, including twenty 
elders, fifty- three priests, twenty-two teachers, and ten 
deacons. 

Tuesday, 27. — At nine in the morning, started in custody 
of Wilson Law for Springfield, in company with Hyrum 

14 Vol. V. 



% 210 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH, [A. D. 18*2 

Smith, Willard Richards, John Taylor, William Marks, 
Levi Moffit, Peter Haws, Lorin Walker and 

The Prophet's ' 

Stan for Orson Hyde. On oar way to Carthage, we 

met William Clayton and Henry G. Sherwood, 
who had obtained an order for a writ of habeas corpus 
from the master in chancery, as no writ could issue, the 
clerk of court having been elected to the State Senate, 

There was considerable snow, and the traveling heavy; 
but we arrived at my Brother Samuel's, in Plymouth, a 
little after sunset, and we were soon joined by Edward 
Hunter, Theodore Turley, Dr. Tace, and Shadrach Roundy. 
The Prophet's I supped with Brother William Smith's family, 
Dream. W ^ Q y lYe ^ ^nder the same roof, slept with Dr. 

Willard Richards on a buffalo skin spread upon the floor, 
and dreamed that I was by a beautiful stream of water 
and saw a noble fish, which 1 threw out. Soon after, I 
saw a number more, and threw them out. I afterwards 
saw a multitude of fish, and threw out a great abundance, 
and sent for salt and salted them. 

Wednesday , 28. — The morning was wet. We started 
about eight o'clock, and arrived at Mr. Stevenson's tav- 
ern, in Rushville, at three in the afternoon, about twenty 
miles. Brother William's wife, who was sick, went with 
us, accompanied by Sister Durphy, who went with us from 
Nauvoo to take care of her. I spent a part of the evening 
with Mr. Uriah Brown and family and a part of my com- 
pany. In conversation respecting the repeal of charters, 
I told them that to touch the Nauvoo Charter was no bet- 
ter than highway robbery ; and that I never would consent 
to lowering our charter, but they might bring other chart- 
ers up to it. On my return to the tavern, the brethren 
took my height, which was six feet, and my Brother 
Hyrum's the same. 

Thursday, 29. — Started early; crossed the Illinois river 
at eleven, and arrived at Captain Dutche's before five in 
the evening, about thirty-two miles: the weather extreme- 
ly cold. Geiieral_LawL^ sked whvJ bhe suruwas called by a 



A.D. 1842] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 211 

lasculine name and the moon by a femin ine one . I replied 
hattheroo tof masc uli ne is stronger, and of f^minine weak- 
ly. The sun is a governing planet to certain planets, while 

'the moon borrows her light from the sun, and is less or 

weaker. 

Let the government of Missouri redress the wrongs she 

has done to the Saints, or let the curse follow them from 

generation to generation until they do. 

When I was going up to Missouri, in company with 

Elder Rigdon and our families, on an extreme 

A Missouri 

cold day, to go forward was fourteen miles to a Reminis- 

CGDCG 

house, and backward nearly as far* We applied 
to all the taverns for admission in vain: we were "Mor- 
mons," and could not be received. Such Was the extreme 
cold that in one hour we must have perished. We pleaded 
for our women and children in vain. We counseled to- 
gether, and the brethren agreed to stand by me, and we 
concluded that we might as well die fighting as to freeze 
to death. 

I went into a tavern and pleaded our cause to get ad- 
mission. The landlord said he could not keep us for love 
or money. I told him we must and would stay, let the 
consequence be what it might ; for we must stay or perish. 
The landlord replied, ''We have heard the Mormons are 
very bad people; and the inhabitants of Paris have com- 
bined not to have anything to do with them, or you might 
stay." I said to him, " We will stay; but no thanks to 
you. I have men enough to take the town ; and if we must 
freeze, we will freeze by the burning of these houses." 
The taverns were then opened, and we were accommo- 
dated, and received many apologies in the morning from 
the inhabitants for their abusive treatment. 

Friday, 30.— Started at eight this morning, ^ t ^^ 
and arrived at Judge Adams', in Springfield, Butterfieid«t 
at half past two o'clock in the afternoon, where 
I saw Justin Butterfield, Esq., United States district 
attorney, who told me that Judge Pope had continued the 



212 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. (A. D. 1842 

court two or three days on account of my case, and would 
close on the morrow, and that he should try my case on 
its merits, and not on any technicality. 

Sheriff Pitman, of Adams county, was in the place, but 
would not say whether he had the original writ which had 
previously been demanded of the officers of Adams county, 
King and Pitman. I gave Mr. Butterfield a general his- 
tory of my Missouri persecution, and it was agreed by him 
that I should be arrested on the writ. Had an interview 
with my Brother, William Smith, who was a member of 
the Legislature at the time, and spent the evening with 
Judge Adams and the brethren from Nauvoo. We all 
lodged at Judge Adams'. 

While in conversation at Judge Adams' during the 
evening, I said, Christ and the resurrected Saints will 
The Reign of i'eig n over the earth during the thousand years. 
EmhEx- They will not probably dwell upon the earth, 
pounded. j^t w in visit it when they please, or when it 

is necessary to govern it. There will be wicked men on 
the earth during the thousand years. The heathen nations 
who will not come up to worship will be visited with the 
judgments of God, and must eventually be destroyed from 
the earth. 

Saturday, 31, — At nine in the morning, Mr. Butterfield 

called and informed me that King had the original writ, 

and I signed a petition to Governor Ford to 

The Prophet's . ° r . 

Trial Before issue a new writ, that my case may be tried 
thereon, as well as on the proclamation. My 
petition was granted, and at eleven o'clock I was arrested 
thereon by a deputy, Mr. Maxey, in presence of Mr. Butter- 
field, my attorney, who immediately wrote a petition to 
Judge Pope for a writ of habeas corpus, which I signed, 
and at half-past eleven in the morning went before Judge 
Pope. 

Mr. Butterfield read my petition, and stated that the 
writ and warrant were different from the requisition of the 
governor of Missouri. He then read Governor Ford's 



A.O 1842] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. ^13 

warrant, Watson's affidavit, Governor Reynolds' requisi- 
tion on the governor of Illinois, and the proclamation of 
Governor Carlin, showing that Reynolds had made a false 
statement, as nothing appeared in the affidavits to show 
that Smith j^sjiiJ\IissQuxi^^ He-alsojrt ated that all the 
'anElioinfylor transportation of persons from one state to 
another rests on the Constitution and the law of Congress. 
We ask for habeas corpus because the papers are false, 
and because that we can prove that Joseph Smith was in 
this state at the time of the commission of the crime. 

The writ was granted, returned, and served in one mi- 
nute, and I walked up to the bar. Mr. Butterfield read 
the habeas corpus, and moved the court to take bail till I 
could have a hearing, — which was granted; and although 
it was only a case of misdemeanor, Generals James Adams 
and .Wilson Law were bailed, for me in the sum of 82,000 
each, and Monday was set for trial. 

The court-room was crowded; and, on our returning, as 
General Law came to the top of the stairs, one of the crowd 
observed, "There goes Smith the Prophet, A Disturbance 
and a good looking man .he is;" "And Threatened - 
[said another] as damned a rascal as ever lived." Hyrum 
replied, "And a good many ditto." "Yes, [said the man,] 
ditto, ditto, G — d — you; and every one that takes his 
part is as damned a rascal as he is." 

When at the foot of the stairs, General Law said, "I 
am the man, and I'll take his part." Said the man, "You 
are a damned rascal too." "You are a lying scoundrel," 
replied Law; and the man began to strip off his clothes 
and ran out in the street, cursing and swearing, and rais- 
ing a tumult, when Mr. Prentice, the marshal, interfered, 
and with great exertions quelled the mob. Much credit is 
^duj ^Mr. Prent iaeJmuhis zeal to keep the peace. 

When the rowdies bad dispersed, I went with The p rop h e t's 
Mr. Butterfield and Dr. Richards to see Gov- ^thGov^rnor 
ernor Ford, who was sick. He told me he had Ford - 
a requisition from the governor for a renewal of persecu- 



214 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1842 

tion in the old case of treason against Missouri; but he 
happened to know that it was all dead. We dined with 
Mr. Butterfield at the American House, wheie the gov- 
ernor quartered, after which we returned to the general's 
room. In course of conversation he remarked he was no 
religionist. I told him I had no creed to circumscribe my 
mind; therefore the people did not like me. "Well, [said 
the general,] from reports, we had reason to think the 
Mormons were a peculiar people, different from other peo- 
ple, having horns or something of the kind; but I find 
they look like other people: indeed, I think Mr. Smith a 
very good-looking man." 

At two in the afternoon, I returned to Judge Adams', 

and appointed Elders Hyde and Taylor to preach in the 

Representatives' Hall on the morrow. 

/ Judge Douglas stated that it was possible to revoke 

political charters, but not company charters. I argued that 

if a legislature has power to grant a charter for 

A. Discussion 

with judge ten years, it has no power to revoke it until 
after the expiration thereof. The same prin- 
ciple will hold good for twenty or one hundred years, and 
also for a perpetual charter: it cannot be revoked in time. 
^x3ohn Darby came in and said he was going to California 
.with Brewster. I told him I would say, as the Prophet 
The Brewster said to Hezekiah, "Go, and prosper; but ye 
Movement. shall not return in peace." Brewster may set 
out for California, but he will not get there unless some- 
body shall pick him up by the way, feed him and help him 
along. Brewster showed me the manuscript he had been 
writing. J inqu ir ed of th e^Lord,_and the Lord -told me 
t he book was not true — it was no t of Him. If God ever 
called me, or spake by my mouth, or gave me a revela- 
tion, he never gave revelations to that Brewster boy* or 
any of the Brewster race. 

* James Collins Brewster, the person mentioned by the Prophet in the text, was 
a boy about sixteen years of age, having been born as nearly as may be ascertained, 
in the year 1827. He claimed several years previous to this time to have had revela- 



A. D. 1843] HISTOEY OF THE CHUKCH. 215 

This afternoon, a team ran away, and went past the 
State House, when the hue-and-cry was raised, "Joe 
Smith is running away ! ' ' which produced great excite- 
ment and a sudden adjournment of the House of Bepre- 
sentatives. 

Sunday morning, January 1, 1843. — The speaker of the 
House of Representatives called on me to say we might 
have the hall for preaching this day. Had a 
pleasant interview with Mi\ ^itterfieId^ JLLidge Distinction 
Douglas, Senator Gillespie, and others. In saints and 
reply to Mr. Butterfield, I stated that the most 
prominent difference in sentiment between the Latter- 
day Saints and sectarians was, that the latter were all cir- 
cumscribed by some peculiar creed, which deprived its 
members the privilege of believing anything not contained 
therein, whereas the Latter-day Saints have no creed, but 
are ready to believe all true principles that exist, as they 
are made manifest from time to time. 

At the suggestion of the company, I explained the nature 
of a prophet. 

* If any person should ask me if I were a prophet, I 
/should not deny it, as that would give me the lie; for, ac- 
cording to John, the testimony of Jesus is the A p roph et 
spirit of prophecy; therefore, if I profess to Defined - 
be a witness or teacher, and have not the spirit of proph- 
ecy, which is the testimony of Jesus, I must be a false 
witness; but if I be a true teacher and witness, I must pos- 
sess the spirit of prophecy, and that constitutes a prophet; 
and any man who says he is a teacher or preacher of 
righteousness, and denies the spirit of prophecy, is a liar, 



tions while in Kirtland, by which he translated the so-called "Book of Esdras' 
which in some way, not altogether clear, was interpreted to be a guide for the 
Latter-day Saints. He succeeded in converting his parents and a small number of 
people to the genuineness of his prophetic powers and gift of translation; and was 
now contemplating a removal of those who believed in him to California. After the 
death of the Prophet, in connection with one Hazen Aldridch,he succeeded in holding 
together a following for a few years, but in the end the Brewster-Aldridch move- 
ment was a flat failure, and the organization ceased to exist. 



216 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

and the truth is not in him ; and by this key false teachers 
and iniposters may be detected. 

At half-past eleven a. m., we repaired to the Represen- 
tatives' Hall, where Elder Orson Hyde read the hymn 
"Rejoice ye Saints of Latter Days." Elder Taylor fol- 
lowed in prayer. The Saints then sang "The Spirit of 
God like a fire is burning." Elder Hyde then preached 
from the 3rd chapter of Malachi. Most of the members 
of the Legislature and the various departments of the state 
were in attendance. 

I dined with Judge Adams at one p. hi., and at half-past 

two returned to the hall, and heard Elder Taylor preach 

from Revelation 14th chapter, 6th and 7th 

Mormon # 

Service at verses, on the first principles of the Gospel. 
There was a respectable congregation, who 
listened with good attention, notwithstanding the great 
anxiety to "see the Prophet." 

I supped at Brother Bowman's, where I saw Sister Lucy 
Stringham (who was one of the first fruits of the Church 
at Colesville, New York,) and many more of the Saints. 
At seven I returned to Judge Adams'. 
i Monday , 2. — After breakfasting with Judge. Adams, I 
prophesied, in the name of the Lord, that I should not go 
to Missouri dead or alive. At half -past nine 
a. m., repaired to the court-room; and at ten, 
Judge Pope took his seat on the bench, accompanied by 
several ladies. 

My case was called up, when Mr. Lamborn, the attor- 
ney-general of Illinois, requested the case to be continued 
till the next day, and Wednesday morning was set for my 
trial. My attorney, Mr. Butterfield, filed some objections 
to points referred to in the habeas corpus, and, half-past 
ten, I repaired to the Senate lobby, and had conversation 
with several gentlemen. Dined at the American House. 
As we rose from table, Judge Brown invited me to his 
room, and informed me he was about publishing a history 
of Illinois, and wished me to furnish a history of the rise 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 21 i 

and progress of the Church of Latter-day Saints to add 
to it. 

At half- past one p. m. returned to General Adams. A 
gentleman from St. Louis told General Law General sen- 
that the general impression was that Smith p™ e Xt'V he 
was innocent, and it would be a kind of murder Innoc ence. 
to give him up— that "he ought to be whipped a little and 
let go." It was evident that prejudice was giviog way in 
the public mind. 

At four, Mr. Lamborn, Mr. Prentice, the marshal, and 
some half dozen others called to see me. The marshal 
said it was the first time during his administration that 
the ladies had attended court on a trial. A peculiarly 
pleasant and conciliatory feeling prevailed in the com- 
pany, and the marshal invited me to a family dinner, when 
I should be freed. 

••At five went to Mr. Sollars 7 with Elders Hyde and Rich- 
ards. Elder Hyde inquired the situation of the negro. I 
[replied, they came into the world slaves, men- 

Ti \ 1 1 • n ™ ...■ The Prophet's 

tally and physically. Change their situation view of the 
with the whites, and they would be like them. 
They have souls, and are subjects of salvation. Go into 
Cincinnati or any city, and find an educated negro, who 
rides in his carriage, and you will see a man who has risen 
by the powers of his own mind to his exalted state of re- 
spectability. The slaves in Washington are more refined 
than many in high places, and the black boys will take the 
shine off many of those they brush and wait on. 
^"Elder Hyde remarked, "Put them on the level, and they 
will rise above me." I replied, if I raised you to be any 
equal, and then attempted to oppress you, would you not 
be indignant and try to rise above me, as did Oliver Cow- 
dery, Peter Whi truer, and many others, who said I was a 
fallen Prophet, and they were capable of leading the peo- 
ple, although I never attempted to oppress them, but had 
always been lifting them up? Had I anything to do with 



218 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

the negro, I would confine them by strict law to their own 
species, and put them on a national equalization. 
<*" Because faith is wanting, the fruits are. No man since 
the world was had faith without having something along 
The world's ^vith it. The ancients quenched the violence 
Lackof Faith. j g re ^ osca p e( j the edge of the sword, women 
received their dead, &c. By faith the worlds were made. 
A man who has none of the gifts has no faith ; and he de- 
ceives himself, if he supposes he has. Faith has been 
wanting, not only among the heathen, but in professed 
Christendom also, so that tongues, healings, prophecy, 
and prophets and apostles, and all the gifts and blessings 
have been wanting. 

Some of the company thought I was not a very meek 
Prophet; so I told them: "I am meek and lowly in heart," 
The Meekness an( l will personify Jesus for a moment, to 
of a Prophet, illustrate the principle, and cried out with a 
loud voice, "Woe unto you, ye doctors; woe unto you, ye 
lawyers; woe unto you, ye scribes, Pharisees, and hypo- 
crites! " &c. But you cannot find the place where I ever 
went that I found fault- with their food, their drink, their 
house, their lodgings; no, never; and this is what is meant 
by the meekness and lowliness of Jesus. 

Mr. Sollars stated that James Mullone, of Springfield, 
told him as follows: — "I have been to Nauvoo, and seen 
a sample of Joe Smith, the Prophet: he had a gray horse, 
Folly - and I asked him where he got it; and Joe said, 

"You see that white cloud." "Yes." "Well, as it came 
along, I got the horse from that cloud." This is a fair 
specimen of the ten thousand foolish lies circulated by this 
generation to bring the truth and its advocates into dis- 
repute. 

What is it that inspires professors of Christianity gener- 
ally with a hope of salvation? It is that smooth, sophisti- 
The Prophet's cated influence of the devil, by which he de- 
niustration. ce i ve s the whole world. But, said Mr. Sollars, 
''May 1 not repent and be baptized, and not pay any at- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 219 

tention to dreams, visions, and other gifts of the Spirit?" 
I replied: "Suppose I am traveling and am hungry, and 
meet with a man and tell him I am hungry, and he tells 
me to go yonder, there is a house of entertainment, go 
and knock, and you must conform to all the rules of the 
house, or you cannot satisfy your hunger; knock, call for 
food, sit down and eat; — and I go and knock, and ask for 
food, and sit down to the table, but do not eat, shall I 
satisfy my hunger? No. I must eat. The gifts are the 
food; and the graces of the Spirit are the gifts of the 
Spirit. When I first commenced this work, and had got 
two or three individuals to believe, I went about thirty 
miles with Oliver Cowdery, to see them. We had only one 
horse between us. When we arrived, a mob of about one 
hundred men came upon us before we had time to eat, 
and chased us all night; and we arrived back again a little 
after daylight, having traveled about sixty miles in all, 
and without food. I have often traveled all night to see 
the brethren; and, when traveling to preach the Gospel 
among strangers, have frequently been turned away with- 
out food. " , 

Thus the evening was spent in conversation and teach- 
ing, and closed by singing and prayer, when we parted, 
and Elders Hyde, Richards and myself lay down upon a 
bed on the floor, and enjoyed refreshing rest till morning. 

Tuesday, 3. — After breakfast, called on Sister Crane, 
and blessed her little baby, Joseph SmithCrane, and returned 
to Judge Adams', where we conversed with 
Messrs. Trobridge, Jonas, Browning, and with Promi- 

,i i t i%/r* • o i Dent Men. 

others, on my old Missouri case of treason. 
At half-past nine, went to the court-room, and had con- 
versation with Messrs. Butterfield, Owen, Pope, Prentice, 
and others. 

At twelve, returned and spent the afternoon at Judge 
Adams'. At dusk, the marshal called with subpoenas for 
my witnesses . Spent the evening with the brethren at 
Judge Adams' in a very social manner, and prophesied in 



220 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A..D. 1843 

the name of the Lord that no very formidable opposition 
would be raised at my trial on the morrow. Slept on a 
sofa as usual while at Springfield. 

Wednesday, 4. — At nine o'clock a. m., repaired to the 

court-room, Judge Pope on the bench, and ten 
of^riai™ ladies by his side, when Josiah Lamborn, 

attorney-general of the state of Illinois, ap- 
peared and moved to dismiss the proceedings, and filed 
the following objections to the jurisdiction of the court, 
— viz. : 

Objection of Jurisdiction, 

1. The arrest and the detention of Smith was not under or by color 
of authority of the United States, or of any officer of the United States, 
but under and by color of authority of the State of Illinois, by the 
officers of Illinois. 

2. When a fugitive from justice is arrested by authority of the gov- 
ernor of any state upon the requisition of the governor of another state, 
the courts of justice, neither state nor federal, have any authority or 
jurisdiction to enquire into any facts behind the writ. 

My counsel then offered to read, in evidence, affidavits 
of several persons, showing conclusively that I was at 
Nauvoo, in the county of Hancock, and state of Illinois, 
on .the whole of the 6th and 7th days of May, in the year 
1842, and on the evenings of those days more than three 
hundred miles distant from Jackson county, in the state 
of Missouri,' where it is alleged that the said Boggs was 
shot; and that I had not been in the state of Missouri at 
any time between the 10th day of February and the 1st 
day of July, 1842, the said persons having been with me 
during the whole of that period. That on the 6th day of 
May aforesaid, I attended an officer's drill at Nauvoo 
aforesaid, in the presence of a large number of people; 
and on the 7th day of May aforesaid I reviewed the Nau- 
voo Legion in presence of many thousand people. 

The reading of these affidavits was objected to by the 
attorney-general of the state of Illinois, on the grounds 
that it was not competent for Smith to impeach or contra- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 221 

diet the return of the habeas corpus. It was contended 
by my counsel, 1st, that I had a right to prove that the 
return was untrue. 2nd, that the said affidavits did not 
contradict the said return, as there was no averment under 
the oath in said return that I was in Missouri at the time 
of the commission of the alleged crime, or had fled from 
the justice of that state. The court decided that the said 
affidavits should be read in evidence, subject to all objec- 
tions; and they were read accordingly, all of which will 
appear on my discharge. B.S. Edwards, Esq., opened 
the defense in an animated speech, and made some very 
pathetic allusions to our sufferings in Missouri, followed 
by Mr. Butterfield, who made the following points: — 

Summary of Counsel Butter field's Argument. 

1. This court has jurisdiction. The requisition purports on its face 
to be made, and the warrant to be issued, under the constitution and 
laws of the United States regulating- the surrender of fugitives from 
justice, 2nd sec, 4th article Constitution of the United States, 1st sec. 
of the Act of Congress of 12th Feb., 1793. When a person's rights are 
invaded under a law of the United States, he has no remedy except in 
the courts of the United States, 2nd sec, 3rd article Constitution United 
States, 12th Wendall, 325—16 Peters, 543. 

The whole power in relation to the delivering up of fugitives from 
justice and labor has been delegated to the United States, and Congress 
has regulated the manner and form in which it shall be exercised. The 
power is exclusive. The State Legislatures have no right to interfere; 
and if they do, their acts are void, 2nd and 3rd clause of 2nd sec, 4th 
article Coustitution United States, 2nd vol. Laws United States 331 — 16 
Peters, 617, 618, 623; 4th Wheaton's Reports, 122, 193-12; Wendall, 
312. 

All couits of the United States are authorized to issue writs of habeas 
corpus when the prisoner is confined under or by color of authority of 
'ie United States, Act of Congress of Sept. 24th, 1789, sec. 14; 2nd 
Condensed 33; 3rd Cranch, 447; 3rd Peters, 193. 

2. The return to the habeas corpus is not certain and sufficient to 
warrant the arrest and transportation of Smith. In all cases on habeas 
corpus previous to indictment, the court will look into the depositions 
before the magistrate; and though the commitment be full and in form, 
yet, if the testimony prove no crime, the court will discharge ex-parte; 



222 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. I A. D. 1843 

Taylor 5th; Cowen 50. The affidavit of Boggs does not show that Smith 
was charged with any crime committed by him in Mo., nor that he was 
a fugitive from justice. If the commitment be for a matter for which 
by law the prisoner is not liable to be punished, the court must dis- 
charge him; 3rd Bacon, 434. The executive of this state has no juris- 
diction over the person of Smith to transport him to Missouri, unless he 
has fled from that state. 

3. The prisoner has a right to prove facts not repugnant to the re- 
turn, and even to go behind the return and contradict it, unless commit- 
ted under a judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction; 3rd Bacon, 
435,438; 3rd Peters, 202; Gale's revised laws of Illinois, 323. The 
testimony introduced by Smith at the hearing, showing conclusively 
that he was not a fugitive from justice, is not repugnant to the return. 

J. Lamborn, attorney-general of the state of Illinois, 
in support of the points made by him, cited 2nd Condensed 
Reports, 37; Gordon's Digest, 73; Gale's Statutes of Illi- 
nois, 318; Conkling, 85; 9th Wendall, 212. 

In the course of his plea, Mr. Butterfield showed that 
Governor Reynolds had subscribed to a lie in his demand 

Th piea of ^ or me ' as w *^ a PP ear i n the papers, [published 
Mr. Butter- in this chapter] ; and said that Governor Car- 
lin would not have given up his dog on such a 
requisition. That an attempt should be made to deliver 
up a man who has never been out of the state, strikes at 
all the liberty of our institutions. His fate today may be 
yours tomorrow. I do not think the defendant ought, 
under any circumstances, to be given up to Missouri. It 
is a matter of history that he and his people have been 
murdered or .driven from the state. If he goes there, it 
is only to be murdered, and he had better be sent to the 
gallows. He is an innocent and unoffending man. If 
there is a difference between him and other men, it is that 
this people believe in prophecy, and others do not; the old 
prophets prophesied in poetry and the modern in prose. 

Esquire Butterfield managed the case very judiciously. 
The court- room was crowded during the whole trial ; the 
utmost decorum and good feeling prevailed, and much 
prejudice was allayed. ' Esquire Lamborn was not severe, 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 223 

apparently saying little more than his relation to the case 
demanded. 

Court adjourned till tomorrow nine a. m., for the mak- 
ing up of opinion. After an introduction to several per- 
sons, I retired to Judge Adams', and after The Treat- 
dinner spent some time in conversation with p r e n p h et at e 
Brother Hyrum and Theodore Turley. At half- Springfield. 
past five o'clock I rode in Mr. Prentice's carriage to his 
house, accompanied by General Law and Elder Orson 
Hyde, where I had a very interesting visit with Mr. Pren- 
tice and family, Judge Douglas, Esquires Butterfield, 
Lamborn and Edwards, Judge Pope's son, and many 
others; partook of a splendid supper; there were many 
interesting anecdotes, and everything to render the re- 
past and visit agreeable; and returned to Judge Adams' 
about eleven o'clock. 

Thursday, 5. — At nine a. m., repaired to the court- 
room, which was crowded with spectators anxious to "be- 
hold the Prophet," and hear the decision of Judge Pope, 
who soon took his seat, accompanied by half-a-dozen la- 
dies, and gave the following: 

Opinion of Judge Pope, 

The importance of this ease, and the consequences which may flow 
from an erroneous precedent, affecting the lives and liberties of our 
citizens, have impelled the court to bestow upon it the most anxious 
consideration. The able arguments of the counsel for the respective 
parties have been of great assistance in the examination of the impor 
tant question arising in this cause. 

When the patriots and wise men who framed our Constitution were in 
anxious deliberation to form a perfect union among the states of the 
confederacy, two great sources of discord presented themselves to their 
consideration — the commerce between the states and fugitives from 
justice and labor. 

The border collisions in other countries have been seen to be a fruit- 
ful source of war and bloodshed, and most wisely did the constitution 
confer upon the national government the regulation of those matters, 
because of its exemption from the excited passions awakened by con- 
flicts between neighboring states, and its ability alone to adopt a uni- 



224 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. fA.D. 1843 

form rule, and establish uniform laws among all the states in those 
cases. 

This case presents the important question arising under the Constitu- 
tion and laws of the United States, whether a citizen of the state of 
Illinois can be transported from his own state to the state of Missouri, 
to be there tried for a crime, which, if he ever committed, was commit- 
ted in the state of Illinois; whether he can be transported to Missouri, 
as a fugitive from justice, when he has never fled from that state. 

Joseph Smith is before the court on habeas corpus, directed to the 
sheriff of Sangamon county, state of Illinois. The return shows that 
he is in custody under a warrant from the execative of Illinois, profess- 
edly issued in pursuance of the Constitution and laws of the United 
States and of the state of Illinois, ordering said Smith to be delivered 
to the agent of the executive of Missouri, who had demanded him as 
a fugitive from justice, under the 2nd section, 4th article of the Con- 
stitution of the United States, and the act of Congress passed to carry 
into effect that article. 

The article is in these words, viz.: — "A person charged in any state 
with treason, felony, or other crime, who shall flee from justice, and be 
found in another state, shall, on demand of the executive authority of 
the state from which he fled, be delivered up to be removed to the state 
having jurisdiction of the crime.'' 

The act of Congress made to carry into effect this article directs that 
the demand be made on the executive of the state where the offender 
is found, and prescribes the proof to support the demand, — viz., indict- 
ment or affidavit. 

The court deemed it respectful to inform the governor and attorney- 
general of the state of Illinois of: the action upon the habeas corpus. 
On the day appointed for the hearing, the attorney-general for the state 
of Illinois appeared and denied the jurisdiction of the court to grant the 
habeas corpus. 1st. Because the warrant was not issued under color 
or by authority of the United States, but by the state of Illinois. 2nd. 
Because no habeas corpus can issue in this case from either the Federal 
or State Courts to inquire into facts behind the writ. 

In support of the first point, a law of Illinois was read, declaring that 
whenever the executive of any other state shall demand of the execu- 
tive of this state any person as a fugitive from justice, and shall have 
complied with the requisition of the act of Congress in that case made 
and provided, it shall be the duty of the executive of this state to issue 
his warrant to apprehend the said fugitive, &c. It would seem that this 
act does not purport to confer any additional power upon the executive 
of this state independent of the power conferred by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, but to make it the duty of the executive 
to obey and carry into effect the act of Congress. 



A.D. 1843] HISTOEY OF THE CHUECH. 225 

The warrant on its face purports to be issued in pursuance of the 
Constitution and laws of the United States, as well as of the state of 
Illinois. To maintain the position that this warrant was not issued under 
color or by authority of the laws of the United States, it must be proved 
that the United States could uot confer the power on the executive of 
Illinois; because if Congress could and did confer it, no act of Illinois 
could take it away, for the reason that the Constitution and laws of the 
United States, passed in pursuance of it, and treaties, are the supreme 
law of the land, and the judges in every state shall be bound thereby, 
anything in the Constitution or laws of any state to the contrary not- 
withstanding. This is enough to dispose of that point. 

If the Legislature of Illinois, as is probable, intended to make it the 
duty of the governor to exercise the power granted by Congress, and no 
more, the executive would be acting by authority of the United States. 
It may be that the Legislature of Illinois, appreciating the importance 
of the proper execution of those laws, and doubting whether the gov- 
ernor could be punished for refusing to carry them into effect, deemed 
it prudent to impose it as a duty, the neglect of which would expose him 
to impeachment. If it intended more, the law is unconstitutional and 
void — 16 Peters, 617 Prigg versus Pennsylvania. 

In supporting the second point, the attorney-general seemed to urge 
that there was greater sanctity in a warrant issued by the governor 
than by an inferior officer. The court cannot assent to this distinction. 

This is a government of laws, which prescribes a rule of action as 
obligatory upon the governor as upon the most obscure officer. The 
character and purposes of the habeas corpus are greatly misunderstood 
by those who suppose that it does not review the acts of an executive 
functionary. All who are familiar with English history must know that 
it was extorted from an arbitrary monarch, and that it was hailed as a 
second Magna Charta; and that it was to protect the subject from arbi- 
trary imprisonment by the king and his minions, which brought into 
existence that great palladium of liberty in the latter part of the reign 
of Charles the Second. It was indeed a magnificent achievement over 
arbitrary power. Magna Charta established the principles of liberty — 
the habeas corpus protected them. It matters not how great or obscure 
the prisoner, how great or obscure the prison-keeper, this munificent 
writ, wielded by an independent judge, reaches all. It penetrates alike 
the royal towers and the local prisons, from the garret to the secret re- 
cesses of the dungeon. All doors fly open at its command, and the 
shackles fall from the limbs of prisoners of state as readily as from those 
committed by subordinate officers. The warrant of the king and his 
secretary of state could claim no more exemption from that searching 
inquiry, "The cause of his caption and detention," than a warrant 

15 Vol. V. 



226 HISTOKY O*' THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

granted by a justice of the peace. It is contended that the United 
States is a government of granted powers, and that no department of it 
can exercise powers not granted. This is true. But the grant is to be 
found in the second section of the third article of the Constitution of 
United States: — "The judical power shall extend to all cases in law or 
equity arising under this Constitution, the laws of the United States, 
and treaties made, and which shall be made under their authority." 

The matter under consideration presents a case arising under the 2nd 
section, 4th article of the Constitution of the United States; and the act 
of Congress of February 12th, 1793. to carry it into effect. The judi- 
ciary act of 1789 confers on this court (indeed on all the courts of the 
United States,) power to issue the writ of habeas corpus, when a per- 
son is confined, "under color of, or by the authority of the United 
States." Smith is in custody under color of, and by authority of the 
2nd section, 4th article of the Constitution of the United States. As to 
the instrument employed or authorized to carry into effect that article 
of the Constitution, (as he derives from it the authority to issue the 
warrant,) he must be regarded as acting by the authority of the United 
States. The power is not officially in the governor, but personal. It 
might have been granted to any one else by name, but considerations 
of convenience and policy recommended the selection of the executive 
who never dies. The citizens of the states are citizens of the United 
States; hence the United States are as much bound to afford them pro- 
tection in their sphere as the states are in theirs. 

This court has jurisdiction. Whether the state courts have jurisdiction 
or not, this court is not called upon to decide. The return of the sher- 
iff shows that he has arrested and now holds in custody Joseph Smith, 
in virtue of a warrant issued by the Governor of Illinois, under the 2nd 
section of the 4th article of the Constitution of the Uuited States, rela- 
tive to tugitives from justice, and the act of Congress passed to carry it 
into effect. The article of the Constitution d<)es not designate the person 
upon whom the demand for the fugitive shall be made, nor does it prescribe 
the proi>f uoon which he shall act. But Congress has done so. The proof 
is kt an indictment or affidavit," to be certified by the governor demand- 
ing. The return brings before the court the warrant, the demand and 
affidavit. The material part of the latter is in these words, viz. — 

"Lilburn W. Boggs, who being duly sworn, doth depose and say that 
on the night of the 6th day of May, 1842, while sitting in his dwelling, 
in the town of Independence, in the county of Jackson, he was shot 
with intent to kill; and that his life was despaired of for several days; 
and that he believes, and has good reason to believe from evidence and 
information now in his possession, that Joseph Smith, commonly called 
the "Mormon Prophet," was accessory before the fact of the intended 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 227 

murder, and that the said Joseph Smith is a citizen or resident of the 
state of Illinois." 

This affidavit is certified by the governor of Missouri to be authen- 
tic. The affidavit being thus verified, furnished the only evidence upon 
which the governor of Illinois could act. Smith presented affidavits 
proving that he was not in Missouri at the date of the shooting of 
Boggs. 

This testimony was objected to by the attorney-general of Illinois, *m 
the ground that the court could not look behind the return. The court 
deems it unnecessary to decide that point, inasmuch as it thinks Smith 
entitled to his discharge for defect in the affidavit. 

To authorize the arrest in this case, the affidavit should have stated 
distinctly — 1st, that Smith had committed a crime; 2nd, that he com- 
mitted it in Missouri. 

It must appear that he fled from Missouri to authorize the gov- 
ernor of Missouri to demand him, as none other than the governor of 
the state from which he fled can make the demand. He could not have 
fled from justice unless he committed a crime, which does not appear. 
It must appear that the crime was committed in Missouri, to warrant 
the governor of Illinois in ordering him to be sent to Missouri for trial. 

The 2nd section, 4th article, declares he ''shall be removed to the state 
having jurisdiction of the crime." As it is not charged that the crime 
was committed by Smith in Missouri, the governor of Illinois could not 
cause him to be removed to that state, unless it can be maintained 
that the state of Missouri can entertain jurisdiction of crimes committed 
in other states. The affirmative of this proposition was taken in the 
argument with a zeal indicating sincerity. But no adjudged case or dic- 
tum was adduced in support of it. The court conceives that none can 
be. Let it be tested by principle. 

Man, in a state of nature, is a sovereign, with all the prerogatives of 
king, lords, and commons. He may declare war and make peace, and 
as nations often do who "feel power and forget right," may oppress, 
rob, and subjugate his weaker and unoffending neighbors. He unites 
in his person, the legislative, judicial, and executive power; "can do no 
wrong," because there is none to hold him to account. But when he 
unites himself with a community, he lays down all the prerogatives sov- 
ereign (except self defense,) and becomes a subject. He owes obedi- 
ence to its laws and the judgments of its tribunals, which he is sup- 
posed to have participated in establishing, either directly or indirectly. 
He surrenders also the right of self-redress. 

In consideration of all which, he is entitled to the eegis of that com- 
muuity to defend him from wrongs. He takes upon himself no alle- 
giance to any other community, so owes it no obedience, and therefore 



228 HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. 1843 

cannot disobey it. None 'other than his own sovereign can prescribe 
a rule of action to him. Each sovereign regulates the conduct of its 
subjects, and they may be punished upon the assumption that they 
have known the rule, and have consented to be governed by it- it would 
be a gross violation of the social compact if the state were to deliver 
up one of its citizens to be tried and punished by a foreign state to 
which he owes no allegiance, and whose laws were never binding on 
him. No state can or will do it. 

In the absence of the constitutional provision, the state of Missouri 
would stand on this subject in the same relation to the state of Illinois 
that Spain does to England. In this particular, the states are independ- 
ent of each other; a criminal fugitive from one state to another could 
not be claimed as of right to be given up. 

It is most true, as mentioned by writers on the laws of nations that 
every state is responsible to its neighbors for the conduct of its citizens 
so far as their conduct violates the principles of good neighborhood; so 
it is among private individuals. But for this, the inviolibility of terri- 
tory or private dwellings could not be maintained. This obligation 
creates the right and makes it the duty of the state to impose such re- 
straints upon the citizen as the occasion demands. 

It was in the performance of this duty that the United States passed 
laws to restrain citizens of the United States from setting on foot and 
fitting out military expeditions against their neighbors. While the 
violators of this law kept themselves within the United States the con- 
duct was cognizable in the courts of the United States, and not of the 
offended state, even if the means provided had assisted in the invasion 
of the foreign state. A demand by the injured state upon the United 
States for the offenders whose operations were in their own country, 
would be answered that the United States' laws alone could act upon 
them, and that as a good neighbor it would punish them. 

It is the duty of the state of Illinois to make it criminal in one of its 
citizens to aid, abet, counsel or advise any person to commit a crime in 
her sister state. Any one violating the law would be amenable to the 
laws of Illinois, executed by its own tribunals. Those of Missouri could 
have no agency in his conviction and punishment. But if be shall go 
into Missouri he owes obedience to her laws, and is liable before her 
courts to be tried and punished for any crime he may commit there; 
and a plea that he was a citizen of another state would not avail him. 
If he escape, he may be surrendered to Missouri for trial. But when 
the offense is perpetrated in Illinois, the only right of Missouri is to 
insist that Illinois compel her citizens to forbear to annoy her. This 
she has a right to expect. For the neglect of it, nations go to war and 
violate territory. 



A. D. 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 229 

The court must hold that where a necessary fact is not stated in the 
affidavit, it does not exist. It is not averred that Smith was accessory 
before the fact, in the state of Missouri, nor that he committed a crime 
in Missouri; therefore he did not commit the crime, in Missouri, did not 
flee from Missouri to avoid punishment. 

Again the affidavit charges the shooting on the 6th of May, in the 
county of Jackson, and state of Missouri, ''that he believes, and has 
good reason to believe from evidence and information now (then) in his 
possession, that Joseph Smith was accessory before the fact, and is a 
resident or citizen of Illinois." 

There are several objections to this., Mr. Boggs having the "evidence 
and information in his possession, 1 ' should have incorporated it in the 
affidavit, to enable the court to judge of their sufficiency to support his 
"belief.'' 

Again, he swears to a legal conclusion, when he says that Smith was 
accessory before the fact. What acts constitute a man an accesory in a 
question of law are not always of easy solution. Mr. Boggs' opinion, 
then, is not authority. He should have given the facts. He should 
have shown that they were committed in Missouri, to enable the court 
to test them by the laws of Missouri, to see if they amounted to a crime. 

Again the affidavit is fatally defective in this, that Boggs swears to 
his belief. The language in the Constitution is, "Charged with felony 
or other crime." Is the Constitution satisfied with a charge upon sus- 
picion? 

It is to be regretted that no American adjudged case has been cited to 
guide the court in expounding this article. Language is ever inter- 
preted by the subject matter. If the object were to arrest a man near 
home, and there were fears of escape if the movement to detain him 
for examination were known, the word charged might warrant the issu- 
ing of a capias on suspicion. Rudyard (reported in Skinner 676), was 
committed to Newgate for refusing to give bail for his good behavior, 
and was brought before common pleas on habeas corpus. The return 
was that he had been complained of for exciting the subjects to dis- 
obedience of the laws against seditious conventicles; and upon examina- 
tion they found cause to suspect him. Vaughan, Chief Justice, "Tyrell 
and Archer against Wild," held the return insufficient; 1st, because it 
did not appear but that he might abet frequenters of conventicles in the 
way the law allows; 2nd, to say that h« was complained of or was 
examined is no proof of his e:uilt. And then to say that he had cause 
to suspect him is too cautious; for who can tell what they count a cause 
of suspicion, and how can that ever be tried? At this rate they would 
have arbitrary power upon their own allegation, to commit whom they 
pleased." 



230 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

From this case it appears that suspicion does not warrant a commit- 
ment, and that all legal intendments are to avail the prisoner: that 
the return is to be most strictlv construed in favor of liberty. If suspi- 
cion in the foregoing case did not warrant a commitment in London by 
its officers, of a citizen of London, might not the objection be urged 
with greater force against the commitment of a citizen of our state to 
be transported to another on suspicion? 

No case can arise demanding a more searching scrutiny into the evi- 
dence, than in cases arising under this part of the Constitution of the 
United States. It is proposed to deprive a freeman of his liberty; to 
deliver him into the custody of strangers; to be transported to a for- 
eign state, to be arraigned for trial before a foreign tribunal, governed 
by laws unknown to him; separated from his friends, his family, and 
his witnesses, unknown and unknowing. Had he an immaculate char- 
acter, it would not avail him with strangers. Such a spectacle is appal- 
ling enough to challenge the strictest analysis. 

The framers of the Constitution were not insensible of the importance 
of courts possessing the confidence of the parties. They therefore pro- 
vided that citizens of different states might resort to the Federal Courts 
in civil causes. How much more important that the criminal have 
confidence in his judge and jury. Therefore, before the capias is 
issued, the officeis should see that the case is made out to warrant it. 
Again, Boggs was shot on the 6th of May, the affidavit was made on 
the 20th of July following. Here was time for enquiry which would 
confirm into certainty, or dissipate his suspicions. He had time to 
collect facts to be had before a grand jury, or be incorporated in his 
affidavit. 

The court is bound to assume that this would have been the course 
of Mr. Boggs; but that his suspicions were light and unsatisfactory. 
The affidavit is insufficient, 1st, because it is not positive; 2nd because 
it charges no crime; 3rd, because it charges no crime committed in the 
state of Missouri. Therefore, he [Joseph Smith] did not flee from the jus- 
tice of the state of Missouri, nor has he taken refuge in the state of Illinois. 

The proceedings in this affair, from the affidavit to the arrest, afford 
a lesson to governors and judges whose action may hereafter be 
invoked in cases of this character. The affidavit simply says that the 
affiant was shot with intent to kill; and he believes that Smith was 
accessory before the fact to the intended murder, and is a citizen or 
resident of the state of Illinois. It is not said who shot him, or that 
the person was unknown. The goveruor of Missouri, in his demand, 
calls Smith a fugitive from justice, charged with being accessory before 
the fact to an assault with intent to kill, made by one 0. P. Rockwell, 
on Lilburn W. Boggs, in this state (Missouri). This governor 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 231 

expressly refers to the affidavit as his authority for that statement. 

Boggs, in his affidavit, does not call Smith & fugitive from justice, nor 
does he state a fact from which the governor had a right to infer it. 
Neither does the name of 0. P. Rockwell appear in the affidavit, nor 
does Boggs say Smith fled. Yet the governor saj's he has fled to the 
state of Illinois. But Boggs only says he is a citizen or resident of the 
state of Illinois. The governor of Illinois responding to the demand 
of the executive of Missouri for the arrest of Smith, issues his warrant 
for the arrest of Smith,. reciting that "whereas Joseph Smith stands 
charged by the affidavit of Lilburn W. Boggs with being accessory 
before the fact to an assault, with intent to kill, made by one 0. P. 
Rockwell, on Lilburn W. Boggs, on the night or the Cth day of May, 
1842, at the county of Jackson, in said state of Missouri; and that the 
said Joseph Smith has fled from the justice of said state, and taken 
refuge in the state of Illinois." 

Those facts do not appear by the affidavit of Boggs. On the con- 
trary, it does not assert that Smith was accessory to 0. P. Rockwell, 
nor that he had fled from the justice of the state of Missouri, and taken 
refuge in the state of Illinois. 

The court can alone regard the facts set forth in the affidavit of 
Boggs as having any legal existence. The mis-recitals and over-state- 
ments in the requisition and warrant are not supported by oath, and 
cannot be received as evidence to deprive a citizen of his liberty and 
transport him to a foreign state for trial. For these reasons Smith 
must be discharged. 

At the request of J. Butterfield, counsel for Smith, it is proper to 
state, in justice to the present executive of the state of Illinois, Gover- 
nor Ford, that it was admitted on the argument that the warraut which 
originally issued upon the said requisition was issued by his predeces- 
sor; that when Smith came to Springfield to surrender himself up upon 
that warrant, it was in the hands of the person to whom it had been 
issued at Quincy, in this state; and that the present warrant which is a 
copy of the former one, was issued at the request of Smith, to enable 
him to test its legality by writ of habeas corpus. 

Let an order be entered that Smith be discharged from his arrest. 

At the close I arose, and bowed to the court, which ad- 
journed to ten o'clock tomorrow. I accepted an invita- 
tion to see Judge Pope in his room, and spent 

, ' . \. . jLl , . ' . The Prophet's 

an hour m conversation with his honor, in Hour with 
which I explained to him that I did not pro- 
fess to be a prophet any more than every man ought 



232 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

to who professes to be a preacher of righteousness; and 
that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy: and* 
gave the judge a brief but general view of my princi- 
ples. Esquire Butterfield asked me ' 'to prophesy how 
many inhabitants would come to Nauvoo." I said, I 
will not tell how many inhabitants will come to 
Nauvoo; but when I went to Commerce, I told the peo- 
ple I would build up a city, and the old inhabitants replied 
"We will be damned if you can." So I prophesied that 
I would build up a city, and the inhabitants prophesied 
that I could not; and we have now about 12,000 inhabi- 
tants. I will prophesy that we will build up a great city; 
for we have the stakes and have only to fill up the inter- 
stices. 

The judge was very attentive and agreeable, and 
requested of me that my secretary, Dr. Richards, would 
furnish him a copy of his decision for the press. 
Dined at General Adams', and in the afternoon visited 
Mr. Butterfield with Brother Clayton. In the evening 
visited Mr. Groves, and lodged at General Adams' with 
Dr. Richards. 

Friday, 6—lrx the morning went to see Judge Pope 
with Dr. Richards, who presented the judge with a report 
of his decision; called on Mr. Butterfield, and 
of Governor gave him two notes of two hundred and thirty 
Ford " dollars each, having paid him forty dollars 

as fee for his service in my suit. I took certified copies 
of the doings of the court, and waited on Governor Ford 
for his certificate thereto, after which he offered me a lit- 
tle advice, which was, that I "should refrain from all 
political electioneering." I told him that I had always 
acted upon that principle, and proved it by General Law 
and Dr. Richards: and that the "Mormons" were driven 
to union in their elections by persecution, and not by my 
influence: and that the "Mormons" acted on the most 
perfect principle of liberty in all their movements. 

During the day I had considerable conversation in the 



A.i). 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 233 

court room with the lawyers and others, on various topics 
and particularly on religion. Judge Pope's Sundry Con . 
son wished me well, and hoped I would not versation s- 
be persecuted any more, and I blessed him. Mr. Butter- 
field said I must deposit my discharge and all my papers 
in the archives of the Temple when it is completed. My 
discharge, here referred to, commenced with my petition 
for habeas corpus and closed with the certificate of 
Thomas Ford, governor of Illinois, including all the doc- 
uments relating to my trial on separate sheets of paper, 
attached by a blue ribbon, and secured by the seal of the 
court, and reads as follows : 

Official Papers Relating to the Prophets Trial at Springfield, III,, Before 

Judge Pope, 

I. 

Pleas before the Circuit Court of the United States for the district of 
Illinois, at the December term, A. D., 18-42, December 31st. 

In the matter of Joseph Smith: Petition for habeas corpus. 

Justin Butterfield, attorney for said petitioner, comes and moves the 
court for the allowance of a writ of habeas corpus, and files the annexed 
petition and the papers referred to therein. 

To the Honorable the Circuit Court of the United States for the dis- 
trict of Illinois: 

The petition of Joseph Smith respectfully showeth that he has been 
arrested, and is detained in custody by William F. Elkin, sheriff of 
Sangamon county, upon a warrant issued by the governor of the state 
of Illinois, upon the requisition of the governor of Missouri, as a fugi- 
tive from justice, a copy of the said warrant and the requisition and 
affidavit upon which the same was issued, is hereto annexed. And 
your petitioner is also arrested by Wilson Law, and by him also held 
and detained in custody, (jointly with the said sheriff of Sangamon 
county) upon a proclamation issued by the governor of the state of 
Illinois, a copy of which proclamation is hereunto annexed. Your 
petitioner prays that a writ of habeas corpus may be issued by this 
court, directed to the said William F. Elkin and Wilson Law, com- 
manding them forthwith and without delay to bring your petitioner 
before this honorable court, to abide such order and direction as the 
said court may mak^ in these premises. Your petitioner states that he is 
arrested and detained as aforesaid under color of a law of the United 



234 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1843 

States, and that his arrest and detention is illegal and in violation of 
law; and without the authority of law, in this, that your petitioner is 
not a fugitive from justice, nor has he fled from the state of Missouri. 
And your petitioner, as in duty bound, will ever pray. 

Joseph Smith. 

II. 

The Governor of the State of Missouri to the Governor of the State 
of Illinois — greeting: 

Whereas it appears by the annexed document, which is hereby cer- 
tified as authentic, that one Joseph Smith is a fugitive from justice, 
charged with being accessory before the fact, to an assault with intent 
to kill, made by oue 0. P. Rockwell on Lilburn W. Boggs, in this state; 
and it is represented to the executive department of this state, has fled 
to the state of Illinois: 

Now, therefore, I, Thomas Reynolds, governor of the state of Mis- 
souri, by virtue of the authority in me vested by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do, by these presents demand the surrender 
and delivery of the said Joseph Smith to Edward R. Ford, who is 
hereby appointed as the agent to receive the said Joseph Smith on the 
part of this state. 

In testimony whereof, I, goyernor of the state of Missouri, have 
hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the great seal of the 
state of Missouri. 

Done at the city of Jefferson, this 22nd day of July, in the year of 
our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-two; of the Inde- 
pendence of the United States, the sixty-seventh, and of this state the 
twenty-third. 

By the Governor, 
[Seal] Thomas Reynolds. 

Jas. L. Minor, Secretary of State. 

III. 
Affidavit of Lilburn W. Boggs, 

State of Missouri, ) 
County of Jackson, J 

This day personally appeared before me, Samuel Weston, a justice of 
the peace within and for the county of Jackson; the subscriber, Lilburn 
W. Boggs, who being duly sworn, doth depose and say, that on the 
night of the sixth day of May, 1842, while sitting in his dwelling, in th e 
town of Independence, in the county of Jackson, he was shot, with in- 
tent to kill; and that his life was despaired of for several days, and that 



A.D. 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 235 

he believes, and has good reason to believe, from evidence and informa- 
tion now in his possession, that Joseph Smith, commonly called the 
Mormon Prophet, was accessory before the fact of the intended murder; 
and that the said Joseph Smith is a citizen or resident of the state of 
Illinois, and the said deponent hereby applies to the governor of the 
state of Missouri to make a demand on the governor of the state of 
Illinois to deliver the said Joseph Smith, commouly called the Mormon 
Prophet, to some person authorized to receive and convey him to the 
state and county aforesaid, there to be dealt with according to law. 

LlLBURN W. BoGGS. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 20th day of July, 1842. 

Samuel Weston, J. P. 

IV. 

Certificate of Secretary of State of Illinois. 

State of Illinois, 
Office of Secretary of State. 
I, Lyman Trumbull, secretary of state, of the state of Illinois, do 
hereby certify the foregoing to be a true and peifect copy of the demand 
of the governor of the state of Missouri upon the governor of this state, 
for the apprehension and surrender of Joseph Smith, who is charged 
with being a fugitive from justice, and the affidavit of Lilburn W. Bo°:gs 
attached to the same, which are on file in this office. 

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the 
great seal of state at Springfield, this thirty-first day of December, A. 
D., one thousand eight hundred and forty-two. 

[Seal.] Lyman Trumbull, 

Secretary of State. 
December 31, 1842. 

I do hereby certify the foregoing to be true copies of the demand and 
affidavit upon which the writ tor the apprehension of Joseph Smith was 
this day issued. 

L. Trumbull, 

Secretary of State. 
December 31, 1842. 

V. 
Governor Fordh Order for the Prophet's Arrest. 

The people of the State of Illinois to the Sheriff of Sangamon County, 

greeting: 
Whereas it has been made known to me by the executive authority of 



236 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1843 

the state of Missouri, that one Joseph Smith stands charged by the 
affidavit of one Lilburn W. Boggs, made on the 20th day of July, 1842, 
at the county of Jackson, in the state of Missouri, before Samuel Weston, 
a justice of the peace within and for the county of Jackson aforesaid, 
\with being accessory before the fact to an assault with intent to kill, 
made by one 0. P. Rockwell on Lilburn W. Boggs, on the night of the 
sixth of May, A.D. 1842, at the county of Jackson, in said state of Mis- 
souri; and that the said Joseph Smith has fled from the justice of said 
state, and taken refuge in the state of Illinois: 

Now, therefore, [, Thomas Ford, governor of the state of Illiuois, 
pursuant to the Constitution and laws of the United States, and of this 
state, do herebycommand you to arrest and apprehend the said Jost ph 
Smith, if he be found within the limits of the state aforesaid, and cause 
him to be safely kept and delivered to the custody of Edward R. Ford, 
who has been duly constituted the agent of said state of Missouri to re- 
ceive said fugitive from the justice of said state, he paying all fees and 
charges for the arrest and apprehension of said Joseph Smith, and make 
due return to the executive department of this state, the manner in 
which the writ may be executed. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the 
great seal of the state to be affixed. 

Done at the city of Springfield, this 31st day of December, in the 
year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-two; and of the 
Independence of the United States, the sixty-seventh. 

By the Governor, 
[Seal.] Thomas Ford. 

Lyman Trumbull, Secretary of State. 

VI. 
Governor Carlin's Proclamation, 

Executive Department, Illinois, 
September 20, 1842. 

Whereas a requisition has been made upon me, as the executive of 
this state, by the governor of the state of Missouri, for the apprehension 
and surrender of 0. P. Rockwell, who is charged with the crime of 
shooting Lilburn W. Boggs, with intent to kill, in the county of Jackson 
and state of Missouri, on the night of the sixth day of May, A. D., 
1S42: 

And whereas a demand has also been made by the governor of Mis- 
souri upon me for the apprehension and surrender of Joseph Smith, 
commonly called the Mormon Prophet, who is charged with the crime 
of being accessory to the shooting of said Boggs at the time and place 
aforesaid, with intent to kill: 



A.I>. 1843) HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 237 

And whereas, in obedience to the Constitution and laws of the United 
States, and of this state, executive warrants have been issued, and the 
said Rockwell and Smith arrested as fugitives from justice from the 
state of Missouri; and whereas the said Rockwell and Smith resisted 
the laws by refusing to go with the officers who had them in custody as 
fugitives from justice, and escaped from the custody of said officers: 

Now, therefore, I, Thomas Carlin, governor of the state of Illinois, 
in conformity to an act entitled "An Act concerning fugitives from jus- 
tice," approved January 6, 1827, do offer a reward of two hundred dol- 
lars to any person or persons for the apprehension and delivery of each 
or either of the above-named fugitives from justice, viz., 0. P. Rock- 
wel 1 and Joseph Smith, to the custody of James M. Pitman and Thomas 
C. King, or to the sheriff of Adams county, at the city of Quincy. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused 
the great seal of state to be affixed, the day and the date above 
mentioned. 

By the Governor, 
[Seal.] Thomas Carlin. 

Lyman Tkumbull, Secretary of State. 

The Fulton Advocate, Quincy Herald, Galena Sentinel, and Rockjord 
Pilot, will copy the above for two weeks. 

VII. 

Petition of the Prophet jor Writ of Habeas Corpus. 

In the United States' Circuit Court, District of Illinois, of December 
Term, 1842, December 31st day. 

In the matter of Joseph Smith, on petition of Habeas Corpus. 

And now at this day comes the said Joseph Smith by Justin Butter- 
field, his attorney, and presents to the court his petition, setting forth 
that he has been arrested and is detained in custody by William F. 
Elkin, Sheriff of Sangamon county, upon a warrant issued by the gov- 
ernor of the btate of Illinois, upon the requisition of the governor of 
Missouri, as a fugitive from justice; and that he is also arrested by 
Wilson La^T^and by him also held and detained in custody (jointly 
with the sheriff of Sangamon county), upon a proclamation issued by 
the governor of the state of Illinois; that he is arrested and detained as 
aforesaid, under color of a law of the United States; and that his arrest 
and detention is illegal and in violation of law, and without the author" 
ity~o1ria"w in this, that the said petitioner is not a fugitive from justice, 
nor^has he fled from the state of Missouri; and praying that a writ of 
habeas corpus may be issued by this court, directed to the said William 
F, Elkin and Wilson Law, commanding them forthwith and without 



238 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1843 

delay to bring the petitioner before this court to abide such order and 
direction as this court may make in the premises: upon reading and 
filing of which said petitiou, it is considered and ordered by the court 
that a writ of habeas corpus be issued as prayed for in said petition, 
returnable forthwith. 

And thereupon a writ of habeas corpus was issued in the words and 
figures following, — to wit: 

VIII. 

Writ of Habeas Corpus. 

The United States of America to William F. Elkin, Sheriff of Sanga- 
mon county, State of Illinois, and Wilson Law, greeting. 

We command you that you do forthwith, without excuse or delay, 
bring or cause to be brought, before the Circuit Court of the United 
States for the district of Illinois, at the District Court-room, in the city 
of Springfield, the body of Joseph Smith, by whatever name or addition 
he is known or called, and who is unlawfully detained in your custody, 
as it is said, with the day and cause of his caption and detention, then 
and there to perform and abide surh order and direction as the said 
court snail make in that behalf. And hereof make due return under the 
penalty of what the law directs. 

Witness, Roger B. Taney, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the 
United States at Springfield, in the district of Illinois, this 31st day of 
December, A. D., 1842, and of our Independence the sixty- seventh 
year. 

[Seal.] James F. Owings, Clerk. 

IX. 

Returns on the Above Writ of Habeas Corpus. 

And afterwards, on the said 31st day of December aforesaid, the said 
writ of habeas corpus was returned, with returns endorsed thereon in 
the words and figures following: — 

I, William F. Elkin, sheriff of Sangamon county, do hereby return 
the within writ, that the within named Joseph Smith is in my custody, 
by virtue of a warrant issued by the governor of the state of Illinois 
upon the requisition of the governor of the state of Missouri, made on 
the affidavit of L. W. Boggs, and a copy of the said warrant, requisition, 
and affidavit is hereunto aunexed, dated December 31, 1842. 

Wm. F. Elkin, 

Sheriffs. C, Illinois. 

I, Wilson Law, do return to the within writ that the said Joseph 



A. D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 239 

Smith is in my custody by virtue of an arrest made by me of his body 
under and by virtue of a proclamation of the governor of the state of 
Illinois; a copy whereof is hereunto annexed, dated December 31, 1S42- 

Wilson Law. 

The return to the within writ of habeas corpus appears by the fore- 
going returns and the schedule hereunto annexed, and the body of the 
said Joseph Smith is in court. 

Wm, Prentiss, 
U. S, Marshal, district of Illinois. 
December 31, 1842. 

IX. 
Orders of the Court. 

And afterwards, to wit, on the same day aforesaid, upon the return 
of the said writ of habeas corpus, the following orders were made in 
this cause: — 

In the the matter of Joseph Smith, on Habeas Corpus. 

William F. Elkin and Wilson Law having made return to the writ of 
habeas corpus issued in this cause, and brought the body of the said 
Joseph Smith into court, on motion of Justin Butterfield, his attorney, 
it is ordered that the said Joseph Smith be admitted to bail; and there- 
upon came the said Joseph Smith in proper person, principal, and James 
Adams and Wilson Law, sureties, and severally acknowledge themselves 
to owe and be indebted to the United States of America, in the sum of 
two thousand dollars each, to be levied of their respective goods and 
chattels, lands and tenements; but to be void on condition that the said 
Joseph Smith shall be and appear before the Circuit Court of the United 
States for the district of Illinois, now sitting from day to day, and shall 
not depart without leave of the court. And thereupon it is ordered that 
this cause be set for hearing on Monday next; and it is further ordered 
that the governor of Illinois and the attorney-general be informed by 
the marshal that Joseph Smith, arrested on a warrant issued for his ap- 
prehension by the governor of Illinois, 31st December, 1842, is before 
this court on habeas corpus, and that the case will be heard on Monday, 
January 2nd, 1843, and that a copy of this order be handed to each of 
those officers. 

It is ordered that the governor of Illinois and the attorney-general be 
informed by the marshal that Joseph Smith, arrested on a warrant • 
issued for his apprehension by the governor of Illinois, 31st December, 
1842, is before this court on a writ of habeas corpus, and that the case 
will be heard on Monday, 2nd January, 1843, and that a copy of this 
order be handed to each of those officers. 



240 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH- [A.D. 1843 

United States of America, 
District of Illinois. 

I, James F. Owings, clerk of the Circuit Court of the United States 
for the district aforesaid, do certify that the foregoing is a true copy of 
an order passed by said court, the 3 1st day of December, 1842. 

In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed 
the seal of said court at Springfield, this 31st day of December, A. D.» 
1842. 

[Seal.] James F. Owings, Clerk. 

Delivered a copy of the within order to Thomas Ford, governor, and 
Josiah Lamborn, attorney-general of the state of Illinois, December 
31st, 1842. 

Wm. Prentiss, Marshal. 

In the matter of Joseph Smith on habeas corpus; copy of order, 
marshal's fees for serving on two, $4.00; returning twelve, $4.12. 



Denials oj the Prophet. 

And afterwards, to-wit, on the 2nd day of January, A. D. 1843, Jus- 
tin Butterfield, attorney of said petitioner, filed the written denials of 
the said petitioner of the matters and things set forth, in the return to 
the said writ of habeas corpus, which denial is in the words and fig- 
ures following, — viz.: 

Circuit Court of the United States, 
District of Illinois, 

In the matter of Joseph Smith upon habeas corpus. 

Joseph Smith, being brought up on habeas corpus before this court, 
comes and denies the matter set forth in the return to the same in this, 
that he is not a fugitive from the justice of the state of Missouri; but 
alleges and is ready to prove, that he was not in the state of Missouri 
at the time of the commission of the alleged crime set forth in the 
affidavit of L. W. Boggs, nor had he been in said state for more than 
three years previous to that time, nor has he been in said state since that 
time; but, on the contrary, at the time the said alleged assault was 
made upon the said Boggs, as set forth in the affidavit the said Smith 
was at Nanvoo, in the county of Hancock, in the state of Illinois, and 
that he has not fled from the justice of the state of Missouri, and taken 
refuge in the state of Illinois, as is most untruly stated in the warrant 
upon which he is arrested, and that the matter set forth in the requtsi- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 241 

tion of the governor of Missouri, and in the said warrant, are not sup- 
ported by oath. 

Joseph Smith. 
State of Illinois, ss. 

Joseph Smith being duly sworn, saith that the matter and things set 
forth in the foregoing statement are true. 

Joseph Smith. 
Sworn and subscribed to before me, this second day of January, 
1843. 

James F. Owings, Clerk. 
XL 
Procedure of the Court. 

And afterwards, to-wit, on the same day and year last aforesaid, the 
following order was made in this cause, — viz.: 

In the matter of Joseph Smith on habeas corpus. 

At this day comes the said Joseph Smith, and, by Justin Butterfield, 
his attorney, files his written denial, verified by affidavit, of the matters 
and things set forth in the return to the writ of habeas corpus issued 
in this cause; and at the same time also comes Josiah Lamborn, attor- 
ney-general of the state of Illinois, and on his motion it is ordered that 
this cause be continued for hearing until Wednesday morning next. 

And afterwards, to-wit, on the fourth day of January, 1843, Josiah 
Lamborn, attorney-general of the state of Illinois, filed his objections 
to the jurisdiction of this court in this cause, and moved to dismiss the 
proceedings herein, which said motion and objections are in the words 
and figures following— viz.: 

United States of America, \ 

In the Circuit Court of the State of Illinois. ) 

In the matter of Joseph Smith. 

J. Lamborn, attorney-general of Illinois, moves the court to dismiss 
the proceedings herein, for the reason that this court has no jurisdic- 
tion. 

1st. The arrest and detention of said Smith was not under or by color 
of authority of the United States, or any of the officers of the United 
States, but under and by color of authority of the state of Illinois, and 
by the officers of Illinois. 

2nd. When a fugitive from justice is arrested by authority of the gov- 
ernment of any state, upon the requisition of any other governor of 
another state, the courts of justice, neither state nor federal have any 
authority or jurisdiction to inquire into any facts behind the writ. 

J. Lamborn, 

Attorney-General of Illinois. 

16 Vol. v. 



242 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D 1843 

And afterwards, to-wit, on the same day and year last aforesaid, the 
following order was made in this cause, — viz. : 

In the matter of Joseph Smith, on habeas corpus. 

And now, again, at this day, comes the said Joseph Smith, by Justin 
Butterfield, his attorney; and at the same time also comes Josiah Lam- 
born, attorney-general of the state of Illinois, and enters his motion to 
dismiss the proceedings herein, for want of jurisdiction; and the court 
having heard the allegations and proofs herein, and the argument of 
counsel upon the same, and also upon the aforesaid motion, and not 
being sufficiently advised took time, &c. 

XII. 

Affidavits of Sundry Witnesses. 

And afterwards, to-wit, on the same day and year aforesaid, Justin 
Butterfield, attorney for said petitioner, filed the affidavits, of which the 
following are copies: 
Circuit Court of the United States, "I 
District of Illinois. J 

In the matter of Joseph Smith, upon habeas corpus. 
District of Illinois, ss. 

Stephen A. Douglas. James H. Ralston, Almeron Wheat, J. B. 
Backenstos, being duly sworn, each for himself, says that they were at 
Nauvoo in the county of Hancock, in this state on the seventh day of 
May last; that they saw Joseph Smith on that day reviewing the Nauvoo 
Legion at that place in the presence of several thousand persons. 

J. B. Backenstos, 
Stephen A. Douglas. 

Sworn to and subscribed in open court, this 4th day of January, 
1843. 

James F. Owings, Clerk. 

Circuit Court of the United States, 
District of Illinois. 

In the matter of Joseph Smith upon habeas corpus. 

District of Illinois: — Wilson Law, Henry G. Sherwood, Theodore 
Tnrley, Shadrach Roundy, Willard Richards, William Clayton, and 
Hyrum Smith, being duly sworn, say that they know that Joseph 
Smith was in Nauvoo, in the county or Hancock, in the state of Illinois, 
during the whole of the sixth and seventh days of May last; that on the 
sixth day of May, aforesaid, the said Smith attended an officer-drill 
at Nauvoo, from ten o'clock in the forenoon to about four o'clock in 
the afternoon, at which drill the said Joseph Smith was present. And 



A.D. 18431 H1ST0EY OF THE CHURCH. 243 

these deponents, Hyrum Smith, Willard Richards, Henry G. Sherwood, 
John Taylor, and William Clayton, were with the said Smith at Nauvoo 
aforesaid, during the evening of the sixth day of May last, and sat with 
the said Joseph Smith in Nauvoo Lodge from sis until nine o'clock of 
said evening. And these deponents, Hyrum Smith, Willard Richards, 
and William Marks, were with the said Smith at his dwelling house, in 
Nauvoo, on and during the evening of the fifth day of May last, and 
conversed with him; and all of the deponents aforesaid do say that, on 
the seventh day of May aforesaid, the said Smith reviewed the Nauvoo 
Legion, and was present with the said Legion all that day, in the pres- 
ence of many thousand people, and it would have been impossible for 
the said Joseph Smith to have beeu at any place in the state of Missouri 
at any time on or between the sixth or seventh days of May aforesaid. 
And these deponents, Willard Richards, William Clayton, Hyrum 
Smith, and Lorin Walker, say that they have seen and conversed with 
the said Smith at Nauvoo, aforesaid, daily, from the tenth of February 
last, until the first day of July last, and know that he has not been 
absent from said city of Nauvoo, at any time during that time, long 
enough to have been in the state of Missouri; that Jackson county in 
the state of Missouri is about three hundred miles from Nauvoo. 

Wilson Law, 
Henry G. Sherwood, 
Theodore Turley, 
Shadrach Roundy, 
Willard Richards, 
William Clayton, 
John Taylor, 
William Marks, 
Lorin Walker. 
Sworn to and subscribed in open court, this 4th Jauuary, 1843. 

wings, Clerk. 

XIII. 

Denial of the Court to Dismiss the Cane. 

And afterwards, to wit on the 5th day of January, 1843, the following 
order was made in this cause, — viz.: 

In the matter of Joseph Smith on habeas corpus. 

And now, at this day, comes again the said Joseph Smith, by Jus- 
tin Butterfield, his attorney, and at the same time also comes Josiah 
Lamborn, attorney-general of the state of Illinois; and the court being 
now sufficiently advised of and concerning the motion heretofore 
entered to dismiss the proceedings in this cause, it is considered that 



244 HISTORY OF THE CHUEOH. [A.D. 1843 

said motion be denied; and the court having fully considered the peti- 
tion of the said Joseph Smith, and the matters and things set forth in 
the return made to the writ of habeas corpus issued herein, and being 
now sufficiently advised of and concerning the same, it is considered 
and adjudged that the matters and things set forth in the return to the 
said writ of habeas corpus are wholly insufficient in law to authorize the 
arrest and detention of the said Joseph Smith; and it is further con- 
sidered, ordered, and adjudged by the court that the said Joseph Smith 
be fully released and discharged from the custody of William F. Elkin, 
sheriff of Sangamon county, under the warrant of the governor of the 
state of Illinois, mentioned in the said return, and also from the custody 
of Wilson Law, on the proclamation of the said governor mentioned in 
the said return, and that he go hence without day. 

United States of America } 
Disirict of Illinois. J 

1, James F. Owing, clerk of the United States Circuit Court for the 
district of Illinois, do certify that the foregoing is a true and correct 
copy of the record and proceedings before said court, in the matter of 
Joseph Smith, on petition, to be discharged on habeas corpus, as the 
same remain on the record and files of said court. 

In testimony whereof , I have hereunto subscribed my name, and 
affixed the seal of said court at Springfield, this sixth day of January, 
A. D. 1843, and of our independence the 67th year. 

[Seal] James F. Owing, Clerk. 

XIV. 

Executive's Order of Release. 

I do hereby certify that I have inspected the foregoing record, and 
there is now no further cause for arresting or detaining Joseph Smith, 
therein named, by virtue of any proclamation or executive warrant 
heretofore issued by the governor of this state; and that since the 
judgment of the Circuit Court of the United States for the district of 
Illinois, all such proclamations are inoperative and void. 

Witness my hand and seal, at Springfield, this 6th day of January, 
1843. 

[Seal] Thomas Ford, 

Governor of Illinois. 

The opinion of Judge Pope as recorded in this history, 
The Prophet's was copied from the Sangamon Journal, and 
j2dge e pop?s believed to be Judge Pope's opinion, as cor- 
Opinion. rected and altered by him from the report 

furnished him by my secretary. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 245 

In the judge's opinion on the bench, he remarked like 
this: — "Were it my prerogative to impeach Congress for 
any one thing, it would be for granting power for the 
transportation of fugitives on affidavit, and not on 
indictment alone.' 7 He also passed several severe stric- 
tures on the actions of different governors and officers 
concerned in my case, but which I suppose he thought 
proper to omit in his printed copy. 

I received many invitations to visit distinguished gen- 
tlemen in Springfield, which time would not permit me to 
comply with ; also a ticket from the manager to attend the 
theatre this evening; but the play was prevented by the 
rain. 



246 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. fA.D. 1844 



CHAPTER XIII. 

THE PROPHET AGAIN IN NATJVOO — CELEBRATION OF HIS RE- 
LEASE FROM OPPRESSION — "VADE MECUM" — REINSTATE- 
MENT OF ORSON PRATT — DISCOURSES OF THE PROPHET, 
"THE KINGDOM OF GOD;" "THE MISSION AND GREAT- 
NESS OF JOHN THE BAPTIST;" "INTERPRETATION OF 
SCRIPTURES." 

Saturday, January 7, 1843. — At half-past eight in the 
morning, we left Judge Adams' to return to Nauvoo, and 
The start for arrived at Captain Dutch's at four in the even- 
Nauvoo. ^ n ^ Traveling very bad, with snow and mud, 

and yet so cold as to whiten the horses with frost. While 
riding this day, General Law and Dr. Eichards composed 
a Jubilee Song, which they wrote and sang in the evening, 
and "dedicated to all lovers of Illinois' liberties," as 
printed on the first page of 37th Number of The Wasp. 

Recent accounts from Alexandria, in Egypt, state the 
mortality (murrain) among the cattle still continues; and 
it was estimated that upwards of 200,000 oxen had already 
died. 

Sunday, 8. — At eight in the morning we left Captain 
Dutch's, and, passing through Geneva and Beardstown, 
and crossing the Illinois river on the ice, arrived at Rush- 
ville at four in the evening. After supper, I went to Mr. 
Uriah Brown's, with several of the brethren and spent the 
evening very agreeably, partly in examining drafts of im- 
provements he had made in some operative and defensive 
machinery. 

Monday, 9. — At half -past eight in the morning, started 
for Plymouth: roads very hard, smooth and icy. When 



A.D. 1843 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 247 

about two miles west of Brooklyn, at half -past twelve 
p.m., the horses of the large carriage slipped and became 
unmanageable; and horses and carriage, with An Accident 
Lorin Walker and Dr. Richards in it, went off by the Wa r- 
the embankment some six or eight feet perpendicular, do- 
ing no damage except breaking the fore-axletree and top 
of the carriage. It was a remarkable interposition of 
Providence that neither of the brethren were injured in 
the least. The com& any agreed j that^Li lburn W. Bo ggs 
shoul d^ pay the damage ; cut down a small tree, spliced 
the axle, drove on, and arrived at Brother Samuel Smith's 
in Plymouth, about four p, m. After supper, I visited 
my sister, Catherine Salisbury, accompanied by Dr. Rich- 
ards and Sister Durphy. This was the first time I haci7 
visited my sister in the state of Illinois, and the circuni- f 
stance brought vividly to my mind many things pertain^J 
ing to my father's house,* of which I spake freely, and 
particularly of my brother Alvin. Haj^s »■ v^y Wi4- 
g2m^j™ui i Hi rp aps pd ^ y-n^Ti" but Adnm nnd-^fh) nn rl of 
great strength . When two Irishmen were fighting, a nd 
one was about to gouge the other's eyes, Alvin took him 
byjn^jipilai^^ 
wl^h-^as-compG&ad^^ 
the-fightr-— 

We returned to Brother Samuel's just before the close 
of the meeting at the schoolhouse, where Elder John 
Taylor preached. After passing the usual salutations with 
several who had called to see me, singing the Jubilee 
Song, etc., retired to rest. 

Tuesday, 10. — At half-past eight in the morning, we 
started for Nauvoo, and, stopping only to water at the 
public well at Carthage, arrived at my house Arrival in 
at half -past two p.m.; found my family well, Nauv0 °- 

/ * "While there," said Dr. Richards, "my heart was pained to see a sister of 
/ Joseph's almost barefoot, and four lovely children entirely so, in the middle of a 
/ severe winter. What has not Joseph and his father's family suffered to bring 
[ forth the work of the Lord in these latter days!" 



248 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. LA.D. 1843 

who, with many friends assembled to greet ns on our safe 
return and my freedom. My aged mother came in and 
got hold of my arm before I saw her, which produced a 
very agreeable surprise, and she was overjoyed to behold 
her son free once more. 

Wednesday, 11. — I rode out with Emma this morning, 
designing to go to Brother Daniel Russel's, and apologize 
for breaking his carriage on our return from Springfield : 
but broke a sleigh-shoe, and returned home, where I re- 
ceived a visit from a company of gentlemen and ladies 
from Farmington, on the Des Moines river, who left at 
half- past two p. m. 

I directed letters of invitation to be written from myself 
and lady for a dinner party at my house on Wednesday 
a Dinner next, at ten a. m., to be directed to Brothers 

Prophet's he Wilson Law, William Law, Hyrum Smith, 
Home. Samuel Bennett, John Taylor, William Marks, 

Peter Haws, Orson Hyde, Henry G. Sherwood. William 
Clayton, Jabez Durphy, H. Tate, Ed ward Hunter, Theodore 
Turley, Shadrach Eoundy, Willard Richards, Arthur 
Millikin, Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Wilford 
Woodruff, George A. Smith, Alpheus Cutler, Reynolds 
Cahoon, and ladies; also Mr. Levi Moffat, and Carlos 
Granger, and ladies; my mother, Lucy Smith, and Sis- 
ters Eliza R. Snow and Hannah Ells. 

On hearing of my invitation for dinner, the Twelve 
Apostles issued the following 

PROCLAMATION. 

♦ 

lo the Saints in Nauvoo. 

Feeling a deep sense of gratitude to our Heavenly Father for the 
great blessings which He has conferred on us in the deliverance of our 
beloved President, Joseph Smith, from the oppression with which he 
has so long been bound, the Traveling High Council invite the brethren 
in Nauvoo to unite with them in dedicating Tuesday, the 17th day of 
January instant, as a day of humiliation, fasting, praise, prayer, and 
thanksgiving before the great Eloheim, that He will continue the out- 
pouring of His Holy Spirit upon this people, that they may ever walk 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 249 

humbly before Him, seek out and follow the counsels given through His 
servant, and ever be united, heart and hand, in building up this stake 
of Zion and the Temple, where God will reveal Himself to this people; 
that no strife or confusion may ever be found in our midst, but peace 
and righteousness may be our companions; and as the Lord has hitherto 
sustained His Prophet in all the difficulties he has had to encounter, so 
He will continue to do, until the Prophet has finished the great work 
committed to his charge; and that all those who have been called to his 
assistance in the holy ministry, may be diligent and faithful in all 
things, that his hands may be stayed on high, like unto Moses; that our 
enemies, if such we have, may repent and, turning away from their 
enmity, get forgiveness and salvation; and that they may have no do- 
minion over the servants of God or His Saints, but that Zion may flour- 
ish upon the mountains and be exalted on the hills, and that all nations 
shall flow untu it and be saved — we will humble ourselves with fasting 
and supplication and sing praises unto our God with the voice of melody 
and thanksgiving, for the deliverance He has wrought out for His ser- 
vant Joseph, through the legally constituted authorities of our govern- 
ment. 

The bishops of the several wards are requested to see that meetings 
are appointed sufficient for the accommodation of the brethren, and 
make a report unto us immediately of the same; and it may be expected 
that some one of the biethren who visited Springfield will be present at 
the different meetings, and give a history of the proceedings. 

In our fastings, humiliations and thanksgivings, let us not forget the poor 
and destitute, to minister to their necessities; and respectfully would 
we suggest to the consideration of the brethren the situation of our Pres- 
ident, who has long had all his business deranged, and has been re- 
cently obliged to expend large sums of money in procuring his release 
from unjust persecution, leaving him destitute of necessaries for his 
family and of means for prosecuting the History of the Church and the 
translations which he is anxious should be in the hands of the brethren 
as speedily as possible. We therefore recommend that collections be 
taken at the different meetings for his benefit; and such as have not 
cash will recollect that provisions will be an excellent substitute, when- 
ever it is convenient to bring them in: and we hope our brethren who 
are farmers in La Harpe, Ramus, Zarahemla, etc., and the region 
around, will have the opportunity of reading these few hints. A word 
to the wise is sufficient. The Lord loveth a cheerful and a bountiful 
giver, and will restore an hundredfold; for the laborer is worthy of his 
hire. 

Brigham Young, President. 

W. Richards, Clerk. 

Nauvoo, January 11, 1843. 



250 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Thursday , 12 — At home all day. 

Friday, 13.— At home till near sunset; then went to 
Brother William Marks with Dr. Richards, to see Sophia 
Marks, who was sick: heard her relate her vision or dream 
of a visit from her two brothers who were dead, touching 
the associations and relations of another world. 

Saturday, 14. — Rode out with Emma in the morning. 
At ten attended city council, and in the evening called the 
quorum of the Twelve together in my chamber, to pray 
for Sophia Marks, who was very sick. 

Sunday, 15. — I spent at home with my family. 

Monday, 10. — I was about home, and directed a letter 
to be written us follows: — 

Letter oj the Prophet to Josiah Butterfield — On Bennett's Movements. 

Nauvoo, January 16, 1843. 
Josiah Butterfield, Esq. 

Dear Sir: — I now sit down to inform you of our safe arrival home on 
Tuesday last, after a cold and troublesome journey of four days. We 
found our families well and cheerful. The news of our arrival was soon 
generally known; and when it was understood that justice had once 
more triumphed over oppression, and the innocent had been rescued 
from the power of mobocracy, gladness filled the hearts of the citizens 
of Nauvoo, and gratitude to those who had so nobly and manfully de- 
fended the cause of justice and innocence was universally manifest; 
and of course I rejoiced with them, and felt like a free man at home. 

Yesterday, a letter was received by Sidney Rigdon, Esq., from John 
C. Bennett, which was handed to me this morning.- From that letter, 
it appears that Bennett was at Springfield a few days after we left there, 
and that he is determined, if possible, to keep up the persecution against 
me. I herewith transmit a copy of his letter, and shall rely upon your 
counsel, in the event, of any further attempt to oppress me and deprive 
me of liberty; but I am in hopes that Governor Ford will not gratify 
the spirit of oppression and mobocracy so glaringly manifest in the con- 
duct of John C. Bennett. 

The following is a copy of his letter: — 

Letter of John C. Bennett to Sidney Bigdon and Orson Pratt. 

Springfield, Illinois, January 10, 1843. 
Mr. Sidney Bigdon and Orson Pratt. 
J)ear Friends: — It is a long time since I have written to you, and I 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE OHOKCH. 251 

should now much desire to see you; but I leave to-night for Missouri, 
to meet the messenger charged with the arrest of Joseph Smith, Hyrum 
Smith, Lyman Wight, and others, for murder, burglary, treason, &c, 
&c, who will be demanded, in a few days, on new indictments found 
by the grand jury of a called court on the original evidence, and in re- 
lation to which a nolle prosequi was entered by the District Attorney. 

New proceedings have been gotten up on the old charges, and no 
habeas corpus can then save them. We shall try Smith on the Boggs 
case, when we get him into Missouri. The war goes bravely on; and, 
although Smith thinks he is now safe, the enemy is near, even at the 
door. He has awoke the wrong passenger. The governor will relinquish 
Joe up at once on the new requisition. There is but one opinion on the 
case, and that is, nothing can save Joe on a new requisition and demand 
predicated on the old charges on the institution of new writs. He inusj^ . 
go to Missouri; but he shall not be har med, if he is not guilty: frut he 
%£ji-4m4*direr > anrl must SUtrerJJbLe^e^^ly^iLtiifiUaLW. Enough on this 
subject. 

I hope that both of your kind and amiable families are well, and you 
will please to give them all my best respects. I hope to see you all soon. 
When the officer arrives, I shall be near at hand. I shall see you all 
again. Please to write me at Independence immediately. 

Yours respectfully, 

John C. Bennett. 

P. S. Will Mr. Riefflon nlease to hand this letter to Mr. Pratt. , after 
reading? 

J. C. B. 

This is his letter verbatim et literatim. 

In the foregoing the designs of Bennett are very plainly manifest; 
and, to see his rascality, you have only to read some articles from his 
pen, published in the Times and Seasons about two years ago, on the 
subject of the Missouri affair. I shall be happy to hear from you on 
this subject as soon as convenieut; also if you have received any com- 
munication from Washington. We are ready to execute the mortgage 
at any time. 

l r ours very respectfully, 

Joseph Smith. 

By William Clayton, Agent. 

P. S. I would just remark, that I am not at all indebted to Sidney 
Rigdon for this letter, but to Orson Pratt, who, after he had read it,, 
immediately brought it to me. 

J. S, 



252 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1813 

The ship Swanton sailed from Liverpool with a company 
of Saints for New Orleans, led by Elder Lorenzo Snow. 

Tuesday, 17. — This being the time appointed by the 
Twelve as a day of humiliation, fasting, praise, prayer, 
and thanksgiving before the great Eloheiru, I 
Fasting and attended a public meeting in my own house, 
iayei which was crowded to overflowing. Many 

other meetings were held in various parts of the city, 
which were well attended, and there was great joy among 
the people, that I had once more been delivered from the 
grasp of my enemies. In the evening I attended a referee 
case, with six others, on a land case of Dr. Robert D. 
Foster's. 

Wednesday, 18. — At ten o'clock in the morning, the 
party invited began to assemble at my house, and before 
twelve they were all present, except LeviMoffatt and wife, 
and Brother Hyrum's wife, who was sick. I distributed 
cards among them, printed for the occasion, containing 
the Jubilee Song of Brothers Law and Richards ; also one 
by Sister Eliza R. Snow, as printed on the 96th page, 4th 
volume of Times and Seasons, which were sung by the 
company with the warmest feelings. 

Itkeiu^ad -JohmC _R eiinettisJette^to. Messrs . SidneyJJig- 
doi^atfd^Orson Pratt, of the 10th instant, and told them 
]r"that Mr. Pratt showed me the letter. Mr. Rigdon did not 
want to have it known that he had any hand in showing 
the letter, but wanted to keep it a secret, as though he 
were holding a private correspondence with Bennett; but 
as soon as Mr. Pratt got the letter, he brought it to me, 
which proves that Mr. Pratt had no correspondence with 
Bennett, and had no fellowship for his works of darkness. 
I told them I had sent word to Governor Ford, by Mr. 
Backenstos, that, before I would be troubled any more by 
Missouri, I would fight. 

Conversation continued on various topics until two 
o'clock, when twenty-one sat down to the dinner-table, 
and Emma and myself waited on them, with other assist- 



A.D. 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 253 

ants. My room was small, so that but few could be ac- 
commodated at a time. Twenty sat down to the second 
table, which was served as the first, and eighteen at the 
third, among whom were myself and Emma; and fifteen 
at the fourth table, including children and my household. 

Many interesting anecdotes were related by the com- 
pany, who were very cheerful, and the day passed off very 
pleasantly. President Brigham Young was present, al- 
though very feeble. This was the first time that he had 
been out of his house since he was taken sick. His fever 
had been so severe, that he had laiD in a log-house, 
rather open, without fire most of the time, when it was so 
cold that his attendants, with great coat and mittens on, 
would freeze their toes and fingers while fanning him. One 
thing more, which tended to give a zest to the occasion, 
was, that it was fifteen years this day since I was married 
to Emma Hale. 

The brethren dispersed about six o'clock, with many 
thanks and expressions of gratitude ; and in the evening I 
attended the Lodge. 

Thursday, 19. — I was at home, excepting a short out in 
the city in the forenoon. 

Friday, 20 — Visited at Brother William Marks' this 
morning; returned at ten a. m., and gave Dr. Richards- 
and W. W. Phelps some instructions about the History,, 
when I received the following communication : — 

VABE MECUM. 

From W. W. Phelps to Joseph Smith, the Prophet. 

Go with me, will you go to the Saints that have died, 
To the next better world, where the righteous reside y 

Where the angels and spirits in harmony be, 
In the joys of a vast paradise? Go with me. 

Go with me, where the truth and the virtues prevail, 
Where the union is one, and the years never fail: 

Not a heart can conceive — not a natural eye see 

What the Lord had prepared for the just. Go with me. 



254 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. TA.D. 1843 

Go with me, where there is no destruction nor war, 
Neither tyrants nor mobbers, nor nations ajar, — 

Where the system is perfect, and happiness free, 
And the life is eternal, with God. Go with me. 

Go with me, will you go to the mansions above, 

Where the bliss and the knowledge, the light and the love, 

And the glory of God do eternally be? 

Death, the wages of sin, is not there. Go with me.* 

In the afternoon I attended a council of the Twelve, at 
President Young's. There were present, Brigham Young, 
Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, John Taylor, 
Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Willard Richards, 
and Brother Hyrum Smith. We had conversation on a 
great variety of subjects. I related my 

Council Meet- to J ° . J 

ing of the dream: — "I dreamed this morning that I was 

Twelve. . 

in the lobby of the Representatives' Hall, at 
Springfield, when some of the members, who did not like 
my being there, began to mar, and cut, and pound my 
shins with pieces of iron. I bore it as long as I could, 
then jumped over the rail into the hall, caught a rod of 

* After the martyrdom of the Prophet both the title And the phraseology of this 
hymn were changed by the author of it, to "Come to me, will ye come, "etc., as it now 
stands in the Latter-day Saints hymn book, page 326, Descret j¥eics edition of 1905 ; 
also the following stanzas were added by Elder Phelps: 

Come to me; here are Adam and Eve at the head 
Of a multitude quickened and raised from the dead; 

Here's the knowledge that was, or that is, or will be, 
In the.'gen'ral assembly of worlds. Come to me. 

Come to me; here's the mysteries man hath not seen, 
Here's our Father in heaven, and Mother, the Queen; 

Here are worlds that have been, and the worlds yet to be, 
Here's eternity, endless; amen. Come to me. 

Come to me, all ye faithful and blest of Nauvoo, 
Come, ye Twelve, and ye High Priests, and Seventies, too, 

Come, ye Elders, and all of the great company, 
When your work you have finished on the earth, come to me. 

Come to me; here's the future, the present and past; 

Here is Alpha, Omega, the first and the last, 
Here's the "Fountain," the "River of Life," and the "Tree!" 

Here's your Prophet and Seer, Joseph Smith. Come to me. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF TEE CHURCH. 255 

Iron, and went at them, cursing and swearing at them in 
the most awful manner, and drove them all out of the 
house. I went to the door, and told them to send me a 
clerk, and I would make some laws that would do good. 
There was quite a collection around the State House, try- 
ing to raise an army to take me, and there were many 
horses tied round the square. I thought they would not 
have the privilege of getting me; so I took a rod of iron, 
and mowed my way through their ranks, looking after 
their best race-horse, thinking they might catch me where 
they could find me. Then I awoke." To dream of flying 
signifies prosperity and deliverance from enemies. To 
dream of swimming in deep water signifies success among 
many people, and that the word will be accompanied with 
power. 

I told Elder Hyde that when he spoke in the name of 
the Lord, it should prove true; but he must not curse the 
people — rather bless them. 

/ I prophesy, in the name of the Lord God, as soon as 
we get the Temple built, so that we shall not be obliged 
to exhaust our means thereon, we will have means to 
gather the Saints by thousands and tens of thousands. 

This council was called to consider the case of Orson 
Pratt who had previously been cut off from the Church 
for disobedience, and Amasa Lyman had been T he case of 
ordained an Apostle in his place. I told the Before the" 
quorum: you may receive Orson back into the council, 
quorum of the Twelve and I can take Amasa into the 
First Presidency. President Young said there were but 
three present when Amasa was ordained, the rest of the 
Twelve being either on a mission or sick. I told them 
that was legal when no more could be had. I told the 
council that from the sixth day of April next, I go in for 
preparing with all present for a mission through the 
United States, and when we arrive at Maine we will take 
ship for England and so on to all countries where we shall 
have a mind to go. We must send for John E. Page to 



256 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. f A. D. 1843 

come home, and have all the quorum to start from this place. 

Let the Twelve be called on, on the 6th of April, and a 
notice be given for a special conference on the platform of 
the House of the Lord. If I live, I will yet take these breth- 
ren through the United States and through the world, and 
will make just as big a wake as God Almighty will let me. 
"We must send kin^s and governors to Nauvoo, and we 
will do it. 

At three o'clock, council adjourned to my- house; and 
at four I baptized Orson Pratt and his wife, Sarah Marin - 
da, and Lydia Granger in the Mississippi river, and con- 
firmed them in the Church, ordaining Orson Pratt to his 
former office in the quorum of the Twelve. 

Saturday, 21. — At home, except going out in the city 
with Elder Orson Hyde to look at some lots. 

Sunday, 22 — I preached at the Temple on the setting 
up of the kingdom of God. The subject arose from two- 
questions proposed at a lyceum meeting. 

1st. Did John baptize for the remission of sins? 

2nd. Whether the kingdom of God was set up before 
the day of Pentecost, or not till then?* 

[The following is a synopsis of this sermon, as reported 
by Elder Wilford Woodruff ] : 

2 he Kingdom of God. 

(Some say the kingdom of God was not set up on the earth until the- 
day of Pentecost, and that John did not preach the baptism of repent- 
ance for the remission of sins; but I say, in the name of the Lord, that 
the kingdom of God was set up on the earth from the days of Adam to 
the present time. Whenever there has been a righteous man on earth 
unto whom God revealed His word and gave power and authority to- 
administer in His name, and where there is a priest of God — a minister 
who has power and authority from God to administer in the ordinances- 
of the gospel and officiate in the priesthood of God, there is the kingdom 
of God; and, in consequence of rejecting the Gospel of Jesus Christ and 
the Prophets whom God hath sent, the judgments of God have rested 
upon people, cities, and nations, in various ages of the world, which 

* This was the contention of the sect of the Disciples, or Campbellites; especially 
was it the view of Alexander Campbell, founder of said sect. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 257 

was the case with the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, tuat were destroyed 
for rejecting the Prophets^ 

Now I will give my testimony. I care not for man. I speak boldly 
and faithfully and with authority. How is it with the kingdom of God? 
Where did the kingdom of God begin'? Where there is no kingdom of 
God there is no salvation. What constitutes the kingdom of Goclf 
QVhere there is a prophet, a priest, or a righteous man unto whom God 
gives His oracles, there is the kingdom of God; and where the oracles 
of God are not, there the kingdom of God is not/ 

In these remarks, I have no allusion to the kingdoms of the earth. 
We will keep the laws of the land; we do not speak against them; we 
never have, and we can hardly make mention of the state of Missouri, 
of our persecutions there, &c, but what the cry goes forth that we are 
guilty of larceny, burglary, arson, treason, murder, &c, &c, which is 
false. We speak of the kingdom of God on the earth, not the kingdoms 
of men. 

The plea of many in this day is, that we have no right to receive 
revelations; but if we do not get revelations, we do not have the oracles 
of God; and if they have not the oracles of God, they are not the people 
of God. But say you, What will become of the world, or the various 
professors of religion who do not believe in revelation and the oracles 
of God as continued to His Church in all ages of the world, when He 
has a people on earth? I tell you, in the name of Jesus Christ, they 
will be damned; and when you get into the eternal world, you will find 
it will be so, they cannot escape the damnation of hell. 

As touching the Gospel and baptism that John preached, I would 
say that John came preaching the Gospel for the remission of sins; 
he had his authority from God, and the oracles of God weze with him, 
and the kingdom of God for a season seemed to rest with John 
alone. The Lord promised Zacharias that he should have a son who 
was a descendant of Aaron, the Lord having promised that the priest- 
hood should continue with Aaron and his seed throughout their genera- 
tions. Let no man take this honor upon himself, except he be called 
of God, as was Aaron; and Aaron received his call by revelation. An 
angel of God also appeared unto Zacharias while in the Temple, and 
told him that he should have a son, whose name should be John, and he 
should be filled with the Holy Ghost. Zacharias was a priest of God, 
and officiating in the Temple, and John was a priest after his father, 
and held the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood, and was called of God to 
preach the Gospel of the kingdom of God. The Jews, as a nation, 
having departed from the law of God and the Gospel of the Lord, pre- 
pared the way for transferring it to the Gentiles. 

But, says one, the kingdom of God could not be set up in the days 

17 Vol. V. 



238 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

of John, for John said the kingdom was at hand. But I would ask if it 
could be any nearer to them than to be in the hands of John. The 
people need not wait for the days of Pentecost to find the kingdom of 
God, for John had it with him, and he came forth from the wilderness 
cryiug out, "Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is nigh at hand,' 1 
as much as to say, "Oat here I have got the kingdom of God and I am 
coming after you; I have got the kingdom of God, and you can get it, 
and I am coming after you; and if you don't receive it, you will be 
damned;" and the scriptures represent that all Jerusalem went out unto 
John's baptism, There was a legal administrator, and those that were 
baptized were subjects for a king; and also the laws and oracles of God 
were there; therefore the kingdom of God was there; for no man 
could have better authority to administer than John; and our Savior 
submitted to that authority Himself, by being baptized by John; there- 
fore the kingdom of God was set up on the earth, even in the days 
of John. 

There is a difference between the kingdom of God and the fruits 
and blessings that flow from the kingdom; because there were more 
miracles, gifts, visions, healings, tongues, &c, in the days of Jesus 
Christ and His apostles, and on the day of Pentecost, than under John's 
administration, it does not prove by any means that John had not the 
kingdom of God, any more than it would that a woman had not a milk- 
pan because she had not a pan of milk, for while the pan might be 
compared to the kingdom, the milk might be* compared to the blessings 
of the kingdom. 

John was a priest after the order of Aaron, and had the keys of that 
priesthood, and came forth preaching repentance and baptism for the 
remission of sins, but at the same time cries out, "There cometh one 
mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy 
to stoop down and unloose," and Christ came according to the 
words of John, and He was greater than John, because He 
held the keys of the Melchisedek Priesthood . and kingdom 
of God, and had before revealed the priesthood of Moses, yet Christ 
was baptized by John to fulfill all righteousness; and Jesus in His 
teachings says, "Upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates 
of hell shall not prevail against it." What rock"? Revelation. 

Again he says, "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, 
he cannot enter into the kingdom of God;" and, "heaven and 
earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. "If a man is 
born of water and of the Spirit, he can get into the kingdom of God. 
It is evident the kingdom of God was on the earth, and John prepared 
subjects for the kingdom, by preaching the Gospel to them and baptiz- 
ing them, and ho prepared the way before the Savior, or came as a 



A.D. 1843 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 259 

forerunner, and prepared subjects for the preaching of Christ; and 
Christ preached through Jerusalem on the same ground where John had 
preached; and when the apostles were raised up, they worked in Jeru- 
salem, and Jesus commanded them to tarry there until they were en- 
dowed with power from on high. . Had thej not work to do in Jeru- 
salem? They did work, and prepared a people for the Pentecost. The 
kingdom of God was with them before the day of Pentecost, as well 
as afterwards; and it was also with John, and he preached the same 
Gospel aud baptism that Jesus and the apostles preached after him. 
The endowment was to prepare the disciples for their missions unto the 
world. 

Whenever men can find out the will of God and find an administra- 
tor legally authorized from God, there is the kingdom of God; but 
where these are not, the kingdom of God is not. All the ordinances, 
systems, and administrations on the earth are of no use to the children 
of men, unless they are ordained and authorized of God; for nothing 
will save a man but a legal administrator; for none others will be 
acknowledged either by God or angels. 

I know what I say; I understand my mission and business. God 
Almighty is my shield; and whdt can man do if God is my friend? I 
shall not be sacrificed until my time comes; then I shall be offered 
freely. All flesh is as grass, and a governor is no better than other men; 
when he dies he is but a bag of dust. I thank God for preserving me 
from my enemies; I have no enemies but for the truth's sake. I have 
no desire but to do all men good. I feel to pray for all men. We don't 
ask any people to throw away any good they have got; we only ask 
them to come and get more. ' What if all the world should embrace this 
Gospel? They would then see eye to eye, and the blessings of God 
would be poured out upon the people, which is the desire of my whole 
soul. Amen. 

Monday, 23, — Was at home, and wrote the editor of 
the Wasp as follows : 

Ihe Prophet on Participation in Politics. 

Dear Sir: — I have of late had repeated solicitations to have some- 
thing to do in relation to the political farce about dividiugthe county; 
but as my feelings revolt at the idea of having anything to do with 
politics, I have declined, in every instance, having anything to do on 
the subject. I think it would be well for politicians to regulate their 
own affairs. I wish to be let alone, that I may attend strictly to the 
spiritual welfare of the Church. 

Please insert the above, and oblige 
Nauvoo, Jan. 23, 1843. Joseph Smith. 



260 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 184:* 

In the evening rode with Emma to see Dr. Richards, 
who was sick, at the old postoffice building, up the river. 

Elder John Snyder returned from his mission to Eng- 
land. 

Tuesday, 24. — Was at home till noon, when I rode out 
with Emma. Evening, attended the Masonic Lodge. 

Wednesday , 25. — Was about home. 

Thursday, 26. — In the afternoon rode to the Temple, 
and afterwards to William Clayton's. 

Friday, 27. — Rode on the prairie with William Clayton. 
Dined at Brother Cornelius P. Lott's. 

Saturday, 28. — Played ball with the brethren a short 
time. Rode round the city with Mr. Taylor, a land 
agent from New York. 

Some snow fell, the ice began to give way in the river, 
and a steamer that had wintered at Montrose went over 
the rapids. 

Sunday, 29.— I attended meeting at the Temple. 
After reading the parable of the prodigal son, and making 
some preliminary remarks, I seated that there were two 
questions which had been asked me concerning my sub- 
ject of the last Sabbath, which I had promised to answer 
in public, and would improve this opportunity. 

zjlhe Greatness and Mission of John the Baptist. 

The question arose from the saying of Jesus — "Among those that are 
born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the 
Baptist; but he that is least in the kingdom of God is 
greater than he." How is it that John was considered one of the 
greatest of prophets? His miracles could not have constituted his 
greatness. 

First. He was entrusted with a divine mission of preparing the way 
before the face of the Lord. Whoever had such a trust committed to 
him before or since? No man. 

Secondly. He was entrusted with the important mission, and it was 
required at his hands, to baptize the Son of Man. Whoever had the 
honor of doing that? Whoever had so great a privilege and glory? 
Whoever led the Son of God into the waters of baptism, and had the 
privilege of beholding the Holy Ghost descend in the form of a dove, 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF TEE CHURCH. 261 

or rather in the sign of the dove, in witness of that administration? 
The sign of the dove was instituted before the creation of the world, a 
witness for the Holy Ghost, and the devil cannot come in the sign of 
a dove. The Holy Ghost is a personage, and is in the form of a per- 
sonage. It does not confine itself to the form of the dove, but in 
sign of the dove. The Holy Ghost cannot be transformed into a dove; 
but the sign of a dove was given to John to signify the truth of the 
deed, as the dove is an emblem or token of truth and innocence. 

Thirdly. John, at that time, was the only legal administrator in the 
affairs of the kingdom there was then on the earth, and holding thekeys 
of power, The Jews had to obey his instructions or be damned, by 
their own law; and Christ Himself fulfilled all righteousness in becom- 
ing obedient to the law which he had given to Moses on the mount, 
and thereby magnified it and made it honorable, instead of destroying it. 
The son of Zacharias wrested the keys, the kingdom, the power, the 
glory from the Jews, by the holy anointing and decree of heaven, and 
these three reasons constitute him the greatest prophet bom of a 
woman. 

Second question: — How was the least in the kingdom of heaven 
greater than he? 

In reply I asked — Whom did Jesus have reference to as being the 
least? Jesus was looked upon as having the least claim in God's king- 
dom, and [seemingly] was least entitled to their credulity as a proph- 
et; as though He had said — "He that is considered the least among 
you is greater than John — that is I myself." 

Ihe Parables of Jesus and the Interpretation of the Scriptures. 

In reference to the prodigal son, I said it was a subject I had never 
dwelt upon; that it was understood by many to be one of the intricate 
subjects of the scriptures; and even the Eiders of this Church have 
preached largely upon it, without having any rule of interpretation. 
What is the rule of interpretation? Just no interpretation fat all. 
Understand it precisely as it reads. I have a key by which I understand 
the scriptures. I enquire, what was the question which drew out the 
answer, or caused Jesus to utter the parable? It is not national; it 
does not refer to Abraham, Israel or the Gentiles, in a national capac- 
ity, as some suppose. To ascertain ts meaning, we must dig up the 
root and ascertain what it was that drew the saying out of .Jesus. 

While Jesus was teaching the people, all the publicans andjsinners 
drew near to hear Him; "and the Pharisees and scribes murmured, say- 
ing, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them." Thisjs the 
keyword which unlocks the parable of the prodigal son. It was?given to 
answer the murmurings and questions of the Sadducees aud Pharisees, 



262 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

who were querying, finding fault, and saying, "How is it that this man t 
as great as He pretends to be, eats with publicans and sinners?" 
Jesus was not put to it so, but He could have found something to illus- 
trate His subject, if He had designed it for a nation or nations; but He 
did not It was for men in an individual capacity; and all straining on 
this point is a bubble. "This man receiveth sinners and eateth with 
them/' And he spake this parable unto them — "What man of you, 
having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the 
ninety-and-nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until 
he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, 
rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends 
and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found 
my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in 
heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety-and-nine 
just persons which need no repentance." The hundred sheep represent 
one hundred Sadduces and Pharisees, as though Jesus had said. "If 
you Sadducees and Pharisees are in the sheepfold, I have no mission 
for you; I am sent to look up sheep that are lost; and when I have 
found them, I will back them up and make joy in heaven." This rep- 
resents hunting after.a few individuals, or one poor publican, which the 
Pharisees and Sadducees despised. 

He also gave them the parable of the woman and her ten pieces of 
silver, and how she lost one, and searching diligently, found it again, 
which gave more joy among the friends and neighbors than the nine 
which were not lost; like I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of 
the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth, more than over 
ninety-aud-nine just persons that are so righteous; they will be damned 
anyhow; you cannot save them. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 26o 



CHAPTER XIV. 

PROVISIONS FOR THE ENLARGEMENT OF THE MUNICIPAL 
GOVERNMENT OF NAUVOO— SUNDRY ACTIVITIES OF THE 
PROPHET — KEYS OF KNOWLEDGE BY WHICH ANGELIC 
ADMINISTRATIONS MAY BE KNOWN— THE PROPHET 'S PARA^ 
BLE, "THE LIONS OF THE PRESS." 

Monday, January 30, 1843. — Spent the day at home 
until six in the evening, when I presided in the city coun- 
cil, where much business was transacted, the most im- 
portant of which was a bill reported by a committee, [pro- 
viding for the enlargements the municipal government of 
Nauvoc] 

[The enactment provided for certain officers in addition to those 
named in the charter; namely, city engineer, market master, weigher 
and sealer of weights and measures, a fire warden in each ward of the 
city, a sexton and police officer to act under the direction of the mayor 
as captain of the watch, and a supervisor of streets and allies. It also 
provided for the preservation of good order in the city, keeping clear 
streets and alleys, defining nuisances and providing against them. Pro. 
viding for the prevention of fires, defining the duties of the city watch, 
and providing for a public market place, etc., etc. — Editors.] 

Tuesday, 31. — At home all day. A severe snowstorm. 

Thursday, February 2, 1843. — Spent the day at home. 
The weather extremely cold. 

Towards evening I rode on to the hill to enquire about 
the caucus which was held there the previous evening, 
Davidson Hibbard presiding, and Brother Benjamin L. 
Clapp, chief speaker, reporting that Joseph and Hyrum 
had attempted to take away the rights of the citizens, re- 



264 HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1843 

f erring to the election of the last city council. I corrected 
the error and returned home. 

4 'The Spirit maketh intercession for us with groanings 
scripture an d cannot be uttered." It would be better 

correction. ^g . — "The Spirit maketh intercession for 
us with striving which cannot be expressed." 

Friday, 3. — This morning, read German; at eleven, 
walked out in the city: returned at a quarter past twelve; 
read proof of " Doctrine and Covenants," which is now 
being stereotyped. 

* Brother John Mayberry sent me a cow to assist in 
bearing my expenses at Springfield. 

Saturday, 4. — At home till one o'clock in the after- 
noon, when I attended the general city election caucus at 
the Temple, where all things were amicably settled and 
mutual good feelings restored to all parties. Brother 
Clapp made a public confession for the speech which he 
made at a former caucus. 

I returned home at about four o'clock, and was visited 
by Amasa M. Lyman. I told him that I had restored 
Orson Pratt to the quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and 
that I had concluded to make Brother Amasa a counselor 
to the First Presidency. 

In the evening presided in the municipal court. 

Sunday, 5.— At home, reading German. 

Monday, 0.— Spent the forenoon at the election of 
mayor, aldermen and councilors for the city, to serve dur- 
ing the next two years, at Brother Hyrum Smith's office. 
Dined at home. One o'clock, afternoon, Thomas Moore 
Re.uit of city came m and enquired about a home. I 
Election. blessed him and said, God bless you for ever 

and ever! May the blessings of Abraham, Isaac and 
Jacob rest upon you for ever and ever; and may you sit 
on thrones high and lifted up, in the name of Jesus Christ. 

Amen. 

When I returned to the election, Joseph Smith was 
elected mavor by unanimous vote. Orson Spencer, Dan- 



A.D. 1843J HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 265 

iel H. Wells, George A. Smith, and Stephen Markharn 
were elected aldermen. Hyruni Smith, John Taylor, 
Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, Sylvester Emmons, Heber C. 
Kimball, Benjamin Warrington, Daniel Spencer, and 
Brigham Young were elected councilors. 

Tuesday, 7. — This forenoon attended a council of the 
Twelve Apostles at the house of President 

. £_ . A Stolen 

Brigham Young. This afternoon I sent a Record 

St* cured 

search warrant to Hyrum Kimball's for the 
purpose of obtaining a book of patriarchal blessings given 
by Father Joseph Smith, which was stolen from Far 
West. The warrant was issued on the affidavit of Jona- 
than H. Holmes, and the book obtained. In the evening 
Hyrum Kimball came to my house for an explanation, 
and I informed him that the book was the property of the 
Church; that it had been stolen, and after passing through 
various Hands, had been secured by Oliver Granger, 
while acting as agent for the Church at Kirtland, and 
should have been given up by him. I have since been 
informed that Sister Sarah, Hyrum Kimball's wife, had 
procured the book of her brother, son of Oliver Granger, 
for the purpose of returning it to the Church; but, being 
under a pledge to her brother not to give up the book 
until he had seen her again, she had neglected to mention 
it to me. 

Elder Parley P. Pratt arrived home from England this 
evening. 

Wednesday, 8. — This morning, I read German, and 
visited with a brother and sister from Michi- 

. A Prophet not 

gan, who thought that a prophet is always a Always a 
prophet;" but I told them that a prophet was 
a prophet only when he was acting as such. After din- 
ner Brother Parley P. Pratt came in: we had conversa- 
tion on various subjects. At four in the afternoon, I 
went out with my little Frederick, to exercise myself by 
sliding on the ice. 



26t) HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

The public papers say that Point Petre, in Gnadaloupe, 
was totally destroyed, and ten thousand persons supposed 
toiiave been killed by an earthquake. 

Thursday, 9. — Part of the forenoon I spent at the 
Masonic Hall, conversing with Mr. Eennick, of Keokuk, 
and trying to effect a settlement with him. He promised 
to let me have some notes on a paper maker in Louisville, 
towards paying me, and then went off contrary to prom- 
ise. I also had a conversation with Master Nye, and read 
.several letters, one from Judge Young, and directed the 
following in reply: 

Joseph Smith to Hon. B. M. Young (U. S. Senator) — Payment of 
Loan, and Nauvoo Postoffice Matters. 

Hon. R. M. Young, City oj Washington: 

Dear Sir: — I have this day received your favor of the 7th nit., cover- 
ing one from John C. Walsh, and barely state in this, that I shall despatch 
a messenger immediately to Quincy, to deposit the $500 in the hands 
of General Leach, according to your instructions; but seeing that I had 
little time to lose, I concluded to send this by the first mail to 
inform you of my intentions. My next, in which I shall enclose General 
Leach's receipt, together with my obligations, will be mailed at Quincy, 
and may be expected three days after you receive this. 

I shall not be able to obtain George Miller's name as security, he 
being at this time several hundred miles north of Nauvoo, and is not 
expected back until spring. I can, however, obtain the signature of 
Mr. Edward Hunter, late from Chester county, Pennsylvania, who 
owns about tweuty thousand dollars' worth of property in this vicinity, 
and probably as much more in the east, which I presume will be 
entirely satisfactory to Mr. Walsh, instead of Mr. Miller. Judge 
Higbee's name will be on the obligations. 

When you receive this, you may expect the other three daj T s later* 
All the difference will be the time required to go from here to Quincy 
and do the business. 

Some time ago, a petition, signed by the principal inhabitants of 
this city, praying the postmaster-general to remove the present 
Nauvoo postmaster and appoint another in his stead, was put in the 
hands of C. A. Warren, Esq., of Quincy, with a request that he would 
hand it to you about the time you left for Washington. We have not 
yet heard whether Mr. Warren hauded it to you or neglected to do so, 
but we feel extremely anxious to learn something on the subject, as the 
citizens generally are suffering severely from the impositions and dis- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 267 

honest conduct of the postmaster and those connected with the post- 
office in this city. The petition was accompanied by some affidavits, 
proving that letters had frequently been broken open, money detained, 
and letters charged twice over, &c,- &c, at this office, the repeated 
occurrence of which circumstances caused the people to be anxious 
for an immediate change. It will be seen by the petition, that 1 
was nominated for the office. I can only say that, if I receive the 
appointment, I shall do my utmost to give general satisfaction. Who- 
ever may be appointed, it is necessary, in my estimation, to have it 
done as soon as circumstances will possibly admit. 

Accept, sir, of my sincere acknowledgments for past favors, which 
are not forgotten, and accept of the best wishes and sincere thanks of 
yours respectfully, 

Joseph Smith. 

By William Clayton, his agent. 

Spent most of the day in conversation with Parley P. 
Pratt and others. 

REVELATION.* 

Three Grand Keys by xvhich Good or Bad Angels or Spirits may be Known — 
Revealed to Joseph the Prophet, at Nauvoo, Illinois, February 9, 1843. 

There are two kinds of beings in heaven — viz., angels,who are resur- 
rected personages, having bodies of flesh and bones. For instance. 
Jesus said, ''Handle me and see, for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, 
as ye see me have. 2nd. The spirits of just men made perfect — they 
who are not resurrected, but inherit the same glory. When a messen- 
ger comes, saying he has a message from God, offer him your hand, and 
request him to shake hands with yon. If he be an angel he will do so, 
and you will feel his hand. If he be the spirit of a just man made per- 
fect, he will come in his glory; for that is the only way he can appear. 
Ask him to shake hands with you, but he will not move, because it is 
contrary to the order of heaven for a just mnn to deceive; but he will 
still deliver his message. If it be the devil as an angel of light, when you 
ask him to shake hands he will offer you his hand, and you will not feel 
anything; you may therefore detect him. These are three grand keys 
whereby you may know whether any administration is from God. 

A man came to me in Kirtland, and told me he had 
seen an angel, and described his dress. I T 

7 Items of the 

told him he had seen no angel, and that there Prophet's 

, , . , -TT , Experience. 

was no such dress in heaven. He grew mad, 

and went into the street and commanded fire to come 

* See Doctrine and Covenants, sec. cxxix. 



"268 HISTOBY OF THE CHURCH. I A. D. 1843 

down out of heaven to consume me. I laughed at him, 
and said, You are one of Baal's prophets; your God does 
not hear you; jump up and cut yourself: and he com- 
manded fire from heaven to consume my house. 

When I was preaching in Philadelphia, a Quaker called 
out for a sign. I told him to be still. After the sermon, 
he again asked for a sign. I told the congregation the man 
was an adulterer ; that a wicked and adulterous generation 
seeketh after a sign; and that the Lord had said to me in 
a revelation, that any man who wanted a sign was an 
adulterous person. "It is true," cried one, "for I caught 
him in the very act," which the man afterwards con- 
fessed, when he was baptized. 

A conference was held at Boylston Hall, Boston, when 
fourteen branches of the Church in Boston Boston con- 
and the vicinity were represented, comprising ference - 
seven hundred and ninety-three members, thirty-three 
elders, forty-three lesser officers, most of whom had been 
raised up in about fifteen months. Elder George J. 
Adams, E. P. Maginn, Erastus Snow, Erastus H. Derby, 
and others, took active parts in the conference. 

Friday, 10. — After conversation with Mr. John B. 

Cowan, and others, I reviewed the history of the mob in 

Hiram, Portage county, Ohio, on the li5th of 

Interview 

with John b. March, 1832, and my first journey to Missouri. 
At three o'clock, afternoon, attended a coun- 
cil of the Twelve Apostles at my house. Of the Twelve 
there were present Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, 
Orson Hyde, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Wood- 
ruff, John Taylor, George A. Smith and Willard Richards. 
I requested that all business be presented briefly and with- 
out comments, and told the council that I had an interview 
with Mr. Cowan this morning; that he was delegated by the 
inhabitants of Shokoquon (which is twenty miles above this 
place on the river) to come toNauvoo, and petition that "a 
talented Mormon preacher take up his residence with them, 
they would find him a good house and give him support, and 



A,D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 269 

with liberty for him to invite as many 'Mormons' to set- 
tle in that place as may please so to do." Council decided 
that Brother John Bear go and preach to them. 

I suggested that a general meeting be called in the city 
in relation to the postoffice and other things, and 
instructed the council to call Elder George J. Adams to 
Nauvoo, with his family, and to say that he is ordered to 
come by the First Presidency, and that he preach no more 
till he comes. 

At five o'clock, I opened a mayor's court at my house, 
when John D. Parker, deputy sheriff, pre- Case of 
sented Oliver Olney before the court for steal- 01iver 01ne >'- 
ing goods from the store of Moses Smith on the 23rd 
of January, when Olney declared before the court that he 
had been visited many times by the Ancient of Days ; that 
he sat with him on the 9th, 10th and 11th of last June, 
and should sit in counsel again with him on Tuesday 
next ; that he had had a mission from him to the four 
quarters of the world ; that he had been and established 
the twelve stakes of Zion, and had visited them all, 
except one in the south ; that he had suffered much for 
two or three years for want of clothing ; that he despised 
a thief , except when he stole to clothe himself; that he 
opened the store of Moses Smith on the 23rd of January, 
and took out the goods then present (several hundred 
pieces) hid them in the cornfield ; and carried them home 
from time to time, under the same roof with Mr. Smith, 
and that no one] knew anything about the robbery but 
himself. 

Olney was once a member of the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter-day Saints, but had been cut off a con- 
siderable time previous. He declared that the Church 
never taught him to steal ; and I have written his volun- 
tary confession here, that others may take warning and 
behave themselves in such a manner that they shall not be 
cut off the Church ; for if they are the Spirit of the living 
God will depart from them, and they may be left to a 



2(0 HIST0EY OF THE CHUECH. [A. D. 1843 

worse spirit of delusion and wickedness than even Oliver 
Olney, who never saw the Ancient of Days nor anything 
like him. But on the testimony presented, I bound him 
over to the next circuit court for trial, in the sum of five 
thousand dollars; and for want of bail, he was committed 
to Carthage jail. 

Saturday 11. — This day had an interview with Elder 
Rigdon and his family. They expressed a willingness to 
be saved. Good feelings prevailed, and we again shook 
hands together. 

At ten o'clock attended the city council. I prophesied 
to James Sloan, city recorder, that it would be better for 
The prophet him ten years hence, not to say anything more 
public 7 f |er- about f ees ; and addressed the new council, 
vice - urging the necessity of their acting upon the 

principle of liberality, and of relieving the city from all 
unnecessary expenses and burdens, and not attempt to 
improve the city, but enact such ordinances as would pro- 
mote peace and good order; and the people would im- 
prove the city ; capitalists would come in from all quar- 
ters and build mills, factories, and machinery of all kinds; 
new buildings would arise on every hand, and Nauvoo 
would become a great city. I prophesied that if the coun- 
cil would be liberal in their proceedings, they would 
become rich, and spoke against the principle of pay for 
every little service rendered, and especially of commitees 
having extra pay for their services; reproved the judges 
of the late election for not holding the polls open after 
six o'clock, when there were many wishing to vote. 

Dr. Robert D. Foster took an active part in electioneer- 
ing for the opposition ticket and obstructing the passage to 
the polls. The council elected James Sloan, city recorder; 
Henry Gr. Sherwood, marshal; William Clayton, treas- 
urer; approved W. W. Phelps as mayor's clerk; Dimick 
B. Huntington, William D. Huntington, Lewis Robison 
and John Barker, constables; Alanson Ripley, surveyor; 
James Allred, supervisor of streets; Dimick B. Hunting- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 271 

ton, coroner; James Sloan, notary public; Theodore Tur- 
ley, weigher and sealer; H. Gr. Sherwood, market master; 
W. W. Phelps, fire warden; Sidney Rigdon, city attor- 
ney; and Samuel Bennett, market inspector for the city. 

A board of health was established, to consist of Joseph 
Smith, William Law, William Marks and Samuel Ben- 
nett. 

The council resolved that a market be established in the 
city. It was proposed to build two markets. 

J i -, , -i •« Nauvoo Mark- 

But I told the council that if we began too *t Place Pro- 

large, we should do nothing; we had better P ° se " 
build a small one at once, to be holden by the corpora- 
tion; and that if that would support itself, we could go on 
to build another on a larger scale; that the council should 
hold an influence over the prices of markets, so that the 
poor should not be oppressed, and that the mechanic 
should not oppress the farmer; that the upper part of the 
town had no right to rival those on the river. Here, on 
the bank of the river, was where we first pitched our 
tents ; here was where the first sickness and deaths oc- 
curred; here has been the greatest suffering in this city. 
We have been the making of the upper part of the town, 
We have located the Temple on the hill, and they ought 
to be satisfied. We began here first; and let the market 
go out from this part of the city ; let the upper part of the 
town be marketed by wagons, until they can build a 
market; and let the Irst market be established on the 
rising ground on Main Street, about a quarter of a mile 
north of the river. Council continued through the day. 

Mother came to my house to live. 

Elders Young and Richards wrote George J. Adams, 
notifying him to come to Nauvoo, according to the deci- 
sion of the council, and answer to the charges of adultery 
which had been preferred against him, before the First 
Presidency. 

Sunday, 12.- — Seven or eight young men came to see 
me, part of them from the city of New York. They 



272 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

treated rue with the greatest respect. I showed them the 

fallacy of Mr. Miller's data concerning the 

on -Miner coining of Christ and the end of the world, or 

ism " 

as it is commonly called, Millerisni,* and 
preached them quite a sermon; that error was in the 
Bible, or the translation of the Bible; that Miller was in 
want of correct information upon the subject, and that he 
was not so much to blame as the translators. I told 
them the prophecies must all be fulfilled ; the sun must be 
darkened and the moon turned into blood, and many 
more things take place before Christ would come. 

Monday, 13. — Elder Eigdon came in early in the 
morning, and gave a brief history of our second visit to 
Jackson county, Missouri. I then read awhile in German 
and walked out in the city with Elder Hyde, returning at 
twelve o'clock. Brother John C. Annis called for coun- 
sel. The marshal called, and informed me that Mr. Rol- 
lison was trying to get the postoffice, and that Dr. R. D. 
Foster was the first to sign the petition. I gave instruc- 
tion about a bond for a part of a lot to Brother John Oak- 
ley. A quarter before four, went to the printing office 
with Brother W. W. Phelps. 

I spent the evening at Elder Orson Hyde's. In the 
course of conversation I remarked that those brethren 

who came here having money, and purchased without the 

• *m 

* Millerism here referred to is the sum of the doctrines taught by William Miller, 
an Ameiican religious zealot who emphasized in his religious teachings the Millen- 
nial Reign of Christ on earth, which reign, he declared, as early as 1&51, would 
commence in the year 1843. His predictions were based largely upon computations of 
time on the prophecies of Daniel and the Book of Revelation. After the great dis- 
appointment which came to his followers in 1843, they abandoned all attempts at 
fixing the date on which the second advent of Christ would take place, but other- 
wise continued to believe in the doctrines advocated by Mr. Miller. "There are 
several divisions or sects of Adventists, the principal of which are: the Advent 
Christians, the largest; the Seventh-day Adventists, much smaller, but more com- 
pactly organized; and the Evangelical Adventists, the smallest. The members 
of the first two believe in the final annihilation of the wicked, which those of the 
third reject. The second observe the seventh day as the Sabbath, and believe in 
the existence of the spirit of prophecy among them; they maintain missions in var- 
ious parts of the world, and a number of institutions at Battle Creek, Michigan, 
their headquarters.'' — Century Dictionary. 



A,D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 273 

Church and without counsel, must be cut off. This, with 
other observations, aroused the feelings of Brother Dixon, 
from Salem, Massachusetts, who was present, and he 
appeared in great wrath. 

I received the following communication: 

Itigdoris Suggested Petition as to Nauvoo Postmaster, 
lo the Hon. Mr. Bryant, Second Assistant Postmaster- General: 

We, your petitioners, respectfully beg leave to submit that as an 
attempt is now, by certain individuals, being made to place the post- 
office in this place into the hands of William H. Rollison, a stranger in 
our place, and one whose conduct since he came here, has been such as 
to forbid our having confidence in him; and we do hope and pray, 
both for ourselves, and that of the public, that he may not receive the 
appointment of postmaster in Nauvoo, Illinois, but that the present 
postmaster may continue to hold the office. 

Brother Joseph Smith, if the foregoing can have a number of respect- 
able subscribers, I believe Rollinson cannot get the office. I should 
like to have it so as to send it on Sunday's mail. Respectfully, 

Sidney Rigdon. 

Tuesday, 14. — Sent William Clayton to Quincy, and by 
him deposited five hundred dollars with General Leach, 
for Mr. Walsh, for land which lies between my farm and 
the city, agreeable to my letter to Judge Young. 

Read proof of the " Doctrine and Covenants" with 
Brother Phelps. Read in German from half-past nine to 
eleven, forenoon. Had the stove removed from the large 
room in my house into a small brick building which was 
erected for a smoke house, designing to use it for a may- 
or's office, until I could build a new one. Had much con- 
versation with Mr. Cowan and various individuals. 

Sold Dr. Richards a cow. 

Wednesday, 15, — This morning I spent some time in 
changing the top plate of the office stove, which had been 
put together wrong. Read a libelous letter in the Alton 
Telegraph, written to Mr. Bassett, of Quincy, concerning 
Judge Pope, Mr. Butterfield, and the ladies attending my 
late trial at Springfield ; and published the following letter 
in the limes and Seasons: 

18 Vol. v 



274 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. I>.D. 1843 

Joseph Smith* 's Parable — the Lions of the Press. 
Mr. Editor: 

Sir: — Ever since I gave up the editorial department of the Times and 
Seasons, I have thought of writing a piece for publication, by way of 
valedictory, as is usual when editors resign the chair editorial. My 
principal remarks I intend to apply to the gentlemen of the quill, or, if 
you please, that numerous body of respectable gentlemen who profess 
to regulate the tone of the public mind in regard to politics, morality, 
religion, literature, the arts and sciences, &c, &c, — viz., the editors of 
the public journals; or, if you please, I will designate them the lions of 
the forest. This latter cognomen, sir, I consider to be more appropri- 
ate because of the tremendous noise that they make when they utter 
their voice. 

It came to pass that, as I went forfch like a young fawn, one day, to 
feed upon the green grass in my pasture, an ass saw me and brayed, 
and made a great noise, which a neighboring lion hearing, roared, even 
as a lion roareth when he beholds his prey. At the sound of his voice, 
the beasts of the field were alarmed, and the lions in the adjoining 
jungles pricked up their ears and roared in their turn ; and behold all 
the lions of the forest, alarmed by their noise, opened their mouths and 
uttered forth their voice, which was as the roaring of a cataract, or as 
the voice of thunder; so tremendous was their roaring, that the trees of 
the forest shook, as if they were shaken by a mighty wind, and all 
the beasts of the forest trembled as if a whirlwind were passing. 

I lifted up mine eyes with astouishment when I heard the voice of 
the lions, and saw the fury of their rage. I asked, is it possible that 
so many lords of the forest, such noble beasts should condescend to 
notice one solitary fawn that is feeding alone upon his pasture, with- 
out attempting to excite either their jealousy or anger? I have not 
strayed from the fold, nor injured the trees of the forest, nor hurt the 
beasts of the field, nor trampled upon their pasture, nor drunk of their 
streams. Why, then, their rage against me? When lo! and behold! 
they again uttered their voices, as the voice of great thunderings, and 
there was given unto them the voice of men; but it was difficult for me 
to distinguish what was said among so many voices; but ever and anon 
I heard a few broken, incoherent sentences like the following: "Mur- 
der! Desolation! Bloodshed! Arson! Treason! Joe Smith and 
the Mormons! Our nation will be overturned! The impostor should 
be driven from the state! The fawn will be metamorphosed into a 
lion — will devour all the beasts of the field, destroy all the trees of the 
forest, and tread under foot all the rest of the lions! " 

I then lifted up my voice and said, Hear me, ye beasts of the forest! 
and all ye great lions, pay attention! I am innocent of the things 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 275 

whereof ye accuse me. I have not been guilty of violating your laws, 
nor of trespassing upon your rights. My hands are clean from the 
blood of all men, and I am at the defiance of the world to substantiate 
the crimes whereof I am accused; wherefore, then should animals of 
your noble mien stoop to such little jealousies, such vulgar language, 
and lay such unfounded charges at the door of the innocent? 

It is true that I once suffered an ass to feed in my pasture. He ate 
at my crib and drank at my waters; but possessing: the true nature of 
an ass, he began to foul the water with his feet, and to trample under 
foot the green grass and destroy it. I therefore put him out of my 
pasture, and he began to bray. Many of the lions in the adjoining 
jungles, mistaking the braying for the roaring of a lion, commenced 
roaring. When I proclaimed this abroad many of the lions began to 
enquire into the matter. A few, possessing a more noble nature than 
many of their fellows, drew near, and viewing the animal found that 
he was nothing more than a decrepid, broken down, worn out ass, that 
had scarcely anything left but his ears and voice. 

Whereupon many of the lions felt indignant at the lion of Warsaw, 
the lion of Quincy, the lion of Sangamon, the lion of Alton, and several 
other lions, for giving a false alarm, for dishonoring their race, and for 
responding to the voice of so base an animal as an ass. And they felt 
ashamed of themselves for being decoyed into such base ribaldry and 
foul-mouthed slander. But there were many that lost sight of their 
dignity, and continued to roar, although they knew well that they were 
following the braying of so despicable a creature. 

Among these was a great lion, whose den was on the borders of the 
Eastern Sea. He had waxed great in strength. He had terrible teeth, 
and his eyes were like balls of fire. His head was large and terrific, 
and his shaggy mane rolled with majestic grandeur over his terrible 
neck. His claws were like the claws of a dragon, and his ribs were like 
those of a Leviathan. When he lifted himself up, all the beasts of the 
field bowed with respectful deference; and when he spake, the whole 
universe listened; and the cinders of his power covered creation. His 
might, his influence, were felt to the ends of the earth. When he lashed 
his tail, the beasts of the forest trembled; and when he roared, all the 
great lions and the young lions crouched down at his feet.* 

This great lion lifting up himself and beholding the fawn afar off, he 
opened his mouth, and, joining in the common roar, uttered the follow- 
ing great swelling yelp: — 

"Joe Smith in Trouble, — By a letter which we published on Sunday, 

* This alludes to the New York Herald, published by James Gordon Bennett, 
who had been influenced by the misrepresentation of affairs at Nauvoo, by John C. 
Bennett. 



276 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 18*3 

from Springfield, Illinois, it appears that Joe Smith, the great Mormon 
Prophet, has at last given himself up to the authorities of Illinois. He 
is charged with fomenting or conspiring to assassinate Governor Boggs, 
of Missouri, and is demanded by the functionary of that state of the 
governor of Illinois. Joe has taken out a writ of habeas corpus, deny- 
ing the fact, and is now waiting the decision of the court at Springfield. 
This will bring Joe's troubles to a crisis. In the meantime, why does 
not Joe try his power at working a miracle or two 1 ? Now's the time to 
prove his mission, besides being very convenient for himself. " 

When I heard it, I said, "Poor fellow! How has thy dignity fallen! 
and how has thy glory departed? Thou that once ranked among the 
foremost of the beasts of the field, as the lord of the forest! — even thou 
hast condescended to degrade thyself by uniting with the basest of 
animals, and to join in with the braying of an ass." 

And now, friend B., allow me to whisper a word in thine ear. Dost 
thou not know that there is a God in the heavens that judgeth— that 
setteth up one and putteth down another, according to the counsel of 
his own will? That if thou possessest any influence, wisdom, dominion, 
or power, it comes from God, and to him thou art indebted for it? That 
he holds the destiny of men in his power, and can as easily put down 
as he has raised up? Tell me, when hast thou treated a subject of re- 
ligious and eternal truth with that seriousness and candor that the im- 
portance of the subject demands from a man in thy standing, possessing 
thy calling and influence? As you seem to be quite a theologist, allow 
me to ask a few questions. Why did not God deliver Micaiah from the 
hands of his persecutors? Why did not Jeremiah ^ivorJc a miracle or 
Uvo" to help him out of the dungeon? It would have been '"very con- 
venient, 11 Why did not Zachariah, by a miracle, prevent the people 
from slaying him? Why did not our Savior come down from the cross? 
The people asked Him to do it; and besides, He had "saved others," and 
could not save Himself, so said the people. Why did He not prove His 
mission by working a miracle and coming down? Why did not Paul, 
by a miracle, prevent the people from stoning and whipping him? It 
would have been "very convenient." Or why did the Saints of God in 
every age have to wander about in sheep-skins or goat-skins, being 
tempted, tried, and sawn asunder, of whom the world was not worthy? • 
I would here advise my worthy friend, before he talks of "proving mis- 
sions, " "working miracles," or any "convenience" of that kind, to read 
his Bible a little more, and the garbled stories of political demagogues 
less. 

I listened, and lo! I heard a voice, and it was tne voice of my 
Shepherd, saying, Listen, all ye lions of the forest; and all ye beasts of 
he field, give ear. Ye have sought to injure the innocent, and your 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 277 

hands have been lifted against the weak, the injured, and the oppressed. 
Ye have pampered the libertine, the calumniator, and the base. Ye 
have winked at vice, and trodden under foot the virtuous and the pure. 
Therefore hear, all ye lions of the forest: The Lord God will take from 
you your teeth, so that you shall no longer devour. He will pluck out 
your claws, so that you can no longer seize upon your prey. Your 
strength will fail you in the day of trouble, and your voice will fail, and 
not be heard afar off; but mine elect will I uphold with mine arm, and 
my chosen shall be supported by my power. And when mine anointed 
shall be exalted, and all the lions of the forest have lost their strength, 
then shall they remember that the Lord he is God. 

Joseph Smith. 

I copy the following from the public prints : — 

Horrors oj a British-Chinese War. 

An English officer, writing to his friend in England, from Ching 
Keang Foo, says — "I never saw such loss of life and property as took 
place here: we lost officers and men enough, but it is impossible even 
to compute the loss of the Chinese; for when they found they could 
stand no longer against us, the} 7 cut the throats of their wives and chil- 
dren, or drove them into wells and ponds, and then destroyed them- 
selves. In many houses there were from eight to twelve bodies, and I 
myself have seen a dozen women and children drowning themselves in 
a small pond the day after the fight. The whole of the city and suburbs 
are a mass of ruins: whole streets have been burnt down." Oh, the 
horrors of Christian warfare! 

About one o'clock in the afternoon I started for Shoko- 
quon, with Mr. John B. Cowan and Elders Orson Hyde 
and Parley P. Pratt, in sleighs. When we came on the 
prairie, it was so extremely cold, I proposed to Mr. Cowan 
to wait till tomorrow; but he chose to go forward, and we 
arrived in safety at Mr. Rose's, where we had supper; and 
in the evening I gave a long exposition of Millerism. That 
night I slept with Mr. Cowan. 



278 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 



CHAPTER XV. 

VISIT OF THE PROPHET TO SHOKOQUON — WOOD CUTTING BEE 
— THE PROPHET'S SPEECH ON CONDITIONS AT NAUVOO 
— ON THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN. 

Thursday , February 16, 1843. — After breakfast, we 
[the Prophet, Mr. Cowan "and their party] proceeded to- 
The visit to wards Shokoquon. After traveling five miles, 
Shokoquon. Brother s Hyde and Pratt's sleigh upset. 
Brother Hyde hurt his hand; the horse ran away, and we 
brought it back. After dinner, at McQueen's Mills, we 
went to Shokoquon, viewed the place and found it a very 
desirable location for a city, when we returned to the 
place where we dined. Elder Hyde prayed and I preached 
to a large and attentive audience two hours (from Rey. 
xix, 10), and proved to the people that any man that 
denied himself as being a prophet was not a preacher of 
righteousness. They opened their eyes, and appeared 
well pleased. When we had returned as far as McQueen's 
Mills, Mr. Cowan halted and proposed to call. While 
waiting a moment, Mr. Crane's horse, (Mr. Crane came 
with our company,) which was behind us, ran and jumped 
into our sleigh as we jumped out, and thence over our 
horse and the fence, sleigh and all, the sleigh being still 
attached to the horse, and the fence eight rails high; and 
both horses ran over lots and through the woods, clearing 
themselves from the sleighs, and had their frolic out with- 
out hurting themselves or drivers. It was a truly wonder- 
ful feat, and as wonderful a deliverance for the parties. 
We took supper at Mr. Crane's, and I stayed at Mr. 
Rose's that night. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 279 

Dr. Richards invited the brethren to come to my house 
on Monday next to chop and pile up my wood. 

Friday, 17. — Mr. Cowan returned with me to my house, 
where we arrived about noon; and I enjoyed The prophet 
myself by my own fireside, with many of my atHome - 
friends around me, the remainder of the day. Mr. Cowan 
proposed to give me one-fourth of the city lots in Shoko- 
quon. 

Saturday, 18. — Mostly about home' and at the office. 
Several called for counsel on points of law. Esquire War- 
ren, of Quincy, called on me. He had hurt his horse, and 
said it was not the first time he had missed it by not fol- 
lowing my advice. While at 'dinner, I remarked to my 
family and friends present, that when the earth was sancti- 
fied and became like a sea of glass, it would be one great 
urim and thummim, and the Saints could look in it and 
see as they are seen. 



L 5 



Letter of the Iwelve — Calling for Assistance for the Prophet* 

The Twelve to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in La 
Harpe, greeting: — 

Beloved Brethren: — We wish to present, briefly, one important 
item for your serious consideration. Our beloved President Joseph 
Smith is now delivered from the prosecution and oppression from with- 
out, by which he has been bound, and also by the same process has 
been relieved of his property; so that he has nothing now to hinder his 
devoting his time to the History of the Church and the spiritual interest 
thereof, except he has to spend his time in gathering food for his 
family. 

This is the point, brethren, whether you will do your duty in supply- 
ing the President with food, that he may attend to the business of the 

* This is the first mention made in the history of the Prophet of this idea which 
receives its fuller development in "Important Items of Instruction" given by him on 
the second of April, 1843, and found at length in the Doctrine and Covenants, sec- 
tion 130. In these "Items of Instruction" we learn that the place where God resides 
is a great urim and thummim, that the earth itself when sanctified and made an 
immortal sphere will be a urim and thummim to the inhabitants who dwell upon it 
whereby all things pertaining to inferior kingdoms will be revealed' to them, and 
to each of such inhabitants an individual urim and thummim will be given through 
which knowledge pertaining to kingdoms of a higher order will be revealed. 



280 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. (A.D. 1843 

Church, and devote his whole time to the spiritual affairs thereof; or 

shall he attend to your business [i. e., that which the Saints ought to 

do for the Prophet] by running here and there for a bushel of wheat 

or a pound of beef and pork, while the revelations to the Church 

cease? This question is for the Church to answer. Therefore we 

call upon the brethren in La Harpe at this time, for immediate 

relief. You are all well aware that we do not raise wheat, corn, beef, 

pork, tallow, lard, butter, eggs, and provisions and vegetables in the 

city, such as you all use, not excepting cotton, or woollen goods, or 

groceries, [a fact] which you are all well acquainted with. And we 

are the same kind of beings in Nauvoo as in the country; and what 

you raise and eat in La Harpe, we would eat in Nauvoo, if we could get 

it, our President not excepted. And everything which is required to 

fill a larder in La Harpe is required in this place; and by this you may 

know what is wanting by our President to prosecute the Lord's work 

and bring about your salvation. 

Brethren, we hope you will give an immediate answer to this by 

loaded teams or letter. 

Brigham Young, 

President. 

.Willard Richards, Clerk. 

Nauvoo, February 18, 1843. 

Sunday, 19.— Spent the day from nine in the morning 
till midnight, in the High'Council, who were attending to 
settlement of the case of Wilson Law and Uriel C. Nicker- 
a Difficulty. son? w k were [ n dispute about the title to 
certain lands on the Island. After hearing the testimony, 
I explained the laws of the United States, Iowa, and Illi- 
nois, and showed that Nickerson had the oldest claim and 
best right, and left it for Law to say how much Nickerson 
should have; and the parties shook hands, in token of a 
settlement of all difficulties. 

The following is copied from the Times and Seasons: — 

Letter of Sidney Bigdon to Alfred StoJces — Correcting Misrepresentations 

of Nauvoo Affairs. 

Nauvoo, Illinois. February 19, 1S43. 
Mr. Aljred Edward StoJces. 

Dear Sir:— In obedience to your request, I send you one number of 
each of the papers published in this place. I am well aware that 
designing men, for sinister purposes, have put in circulation reports con- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 281 

eerning the people here, which are so monstrous that it is a matter of 
surprise how any rational being could profess to believe them at all. 
If I were even to profess to believe such incredible and ridiculous non- 
sense about any people, I should consider the public would have suf- 
ficient cause to scorn me as the mere tool of corrupt and foul slanderers: 
but anything to stop the progress of that which cannot be stopped by fact 
and scripture truth. That man must have a large stock of moral cour- 
age who dare in anywise profess belief in such outlandish representa- 
tions as are made in the public papers concerning the people of Nau- 
voo, and circulated orally by wicked and designing men. The old, stale 
story about common stock, in defiance of fact and truth, it would ap- 
pear by your letter and that of your friend Evans, is professedly be- 
lieved by the people in the vicinity of Waynesville, Ohio. This false- 
hood was invented by an ignorant blockhead, by the name of Matthew 
Clapp, who, for want of any other means to stop the progress of truth 
in its more incipient stages, invented this falsehood, and, finding it took 
with persons of his own stamp, circulated it with untiring perseverance, 
in direct opposition to the testimony of his senses, knowing, at the time 
he commenced circulating it, that it was false. He was a preacher of 
the Campbellite faith. 

It would require the ignorance of barbarians and the credulity of sav- 
ages to attempt a belief in the falsehoods which are circulated against 
the Saints with great zeal by many. I have never supposed that the 
authors of these defamatory tales ever expected the public would 
believe them; but they expected that men of corrupt minds, like them- 
selves, would profess to believe them; neither do I now believe that 
those who profess to believe them do actually believe one word of them; 
but they profess to do it, thinking that, by so doing, they can make 
some headway against us: but it is a vain attempt; for every attempt 
of the kind has only excited inquiry, awakened curiosity, and caused 
investigation, which have, in every instance, resulted in an increase of 
members to the Church; so that we grant full license to all defamers to 
do their uttermost. 

Our city is a great thoroughfare : people of all classes are crowding 
into it; multitudes who do not belong to tiie Church of Latter-day Saints 
are seeking locations where they can prosecute their respective callings. 
If you wish the papers, you can put the money into a letter, and the 
postmaster at your place will send it without expense. 

Yours, with respect, 

Sidney Rigdon, P. M. 

Elder William Henshaw having been directed by Elder 
Lorenzo Snow to go to South Wales, he commenced 



282 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 184a 

preaching in the English language privately to several 
families in Pen y Darren, near Merthyr Tydvil, Glamor. 
„ . . , ganshire. A number of the people believed 

Beginning or . 

the work in his testimony, and this day he baptized Wil- 
liam Eees Davis, his wife, and two of his sons, 
and commenced preaching publicly in Brother Davis's 
house, about one- third of the people only understanding 
the English language. 

Monday, 20. — About seventy of the brethren came to- 
gether, according to previous notice, and drawed, sawed, 
wood-cutting chopped, split, moved, and piled up a large lot 
Prophet^ °^ wo °d i n m Y yard. The day was spent by 

Home. them with much pleasantry, good humor and 

feeling. A white oak log, measuring five feet four inches 
in diameter was cut through with a cross-cut saw, in four- 
and-a-half minutes, by Hyrum Dayton and Brother John 
Tidwell. This tree had been previously cut and hauled by 
my own hands and team. 

From nine to eleven this morning, I was reading in 
German; and from eleven to twelve, held mayor's court 
on assumpsit, Charles R. Dana, v. William B. Brink, 
which was adjourned ten days. 

Last night, Arthur Milliken had a number of books 
stolen, and found them this afternoon in Brother Hyrum's 
hayloft. Two boys, Thomas Morgan and Robert Taylor, 
were arrested on suspicion and brought before me for ex- 
amination. After a brief investigation, the court adjourned 
until ten o'clock tomorrow morning. 

While the court was in session, I saw two boys fighting 
in the street, near Mills*' Tavern. I left the business of 
The Prophet a the court, ran over immediately, caught one 
Peace Maker. Q j ^ e k y S ( w } 10 had begun the fight with 

clubs,) and then the other; and, after giving them proper 
instruction, I gave the bystanders a lecture for not inter- 
fering in such cases, and told them to quell all disturb- 
ances in the street at the first onset. I returned to the 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 283 

court, and told them that nobody was allowed to fight in 
Nauvoo but myself. 

In the evening, called at Brother Heber C. Kimball's. 

John Quincy Adams presented to the House of Repre- 
sentatives of the United States a petition signed by 51,863 
citizens of Massachusetts, praying congress to pass such 
acts and propose such amendments to the Constitution as 
would separate the petitioners from all connection with 
the institution of slavery.* 

Tuesday , 21. — Opened mayor's court at ten o'clock 
forenoon, according to adjournment. Robert Taylor was 
again brought up for stealing, and Thomas Morgan for 
receiving the books, [referred to above] and each sen- 
tenced to six months imprisonment in Carthage jail. 

At eleven I went to the Temple, and found m m 

r ' Temple Work- 

a large assembly, and Brother Haws preach- era' Difficui- 
ing about the Nauvoo House; after which, Mr. 

* Thia was but one of a series of such petitions from New England which Mr. 
Adams presented to the House of Representatives. In fact upon his entrance as a 
member of the House, in 1831, (following his term of President of the United 
States) he had begun an agitation of the slavery question in Congress, but his con. 
tention in the main was for the maintenance of the sacred right of petition by the 
people, which right had undoubtedly been abridged by some unwise resolutions 
that had been adopted by the Congress of the United States. In 1838 a set of reso- 
lutions was adopted in the House by a vote of 146 to 52, in which, among other thiugs, 
it was "Resolved, that petitions for the abolition of slavery in the District of Co- 
lumbia and territories of the United States, and against the removal of slaves rrom 
one state to another, was part of the plan of operation set on foot to affect the 
institution of slavery in the southern states and thus tending, indirectly, to destroy 
that institution within their limits. * * * And that every petition, memorial, 
resolution, proposition, or paper touching or relating in any way or to any extent 
whatever to slavery as aforesaid, or the abolition thereof, shall on presentation 
thereof, without any further question thereon, be laid upon the table without being 
debated, printed, or referred," In the Congress of 1842, notwithstanding these 
resolutions, Mr. Adams, in January, presented a petition from the citizens of Haver- 
hill, Massachusetts, "praying the immediate adoption of measures peaceably t 
desolve the union of these states, signed by Benjamin Emerson and four hundred 
and fifty-sis other persons, in which the reasons of the petition were set forth with in- 
structions to report an answer to the petitioners showing the reasons why the prayer 
of it ought not to be granted." (Stepheus' History of the U. S.) Mr. Adams of 
course had no sympathy with this and many other petitions that he presented, but 
he held the right of petition to be sacred, and he continued the fight for it until 
he saw such changes in the rules of the House of Representatives as allowed peti- 
tions on the question of slavery to be received without objection and freely dis- 
cussed. 



284 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A,D. 1843 

Lucian Woodworth, the architect of the house, continued 
the subject, and said, "When I have had a pound of meat 
or a quart of meal, I have divided with the workmen. 
['Pretty good doctrine for Paganism,' said I. At this 
time Mr. Woodworth was not baptized, and called himself 
the Pagan Prophet.] We have had about three hundred 
men on the job, and some of the best men in the world. 
Those that have not complained I want to continue with 
me; and those that hate 'Mormonism' and everything 
else that's good, I want them to get their pay and run 
away as quickly as possible." When Mr. Woodworth had 
done speaking, I addressed the multitude in substance as 
follows : — 

Remarks of the Prophet to Workmen on the Temple. 

Well, the Pagan Prophet has preached us a pretty good sermon this 
morning, and I don't know that I can better it much; but I feel dis- 
posed to break off: the yoke of oppression, and say what I have a mind 
to. If the pagans and the Pagan Prophet feel more for our prosperity 
than we do for ourselves, it is curious; I am almost converted to his 
doctrine. He has prophesied that if these buildings go down, it will 
curse the place. I verily know it is true. Let us build the Temple. 
There may be some speculations about the Nauvoo House, say some. 
Some say, because we live on the hill, we must build up this part on 
the hill. Does that coat fit you, Dr. Foster? (Foster: "Pretty well.") 
Put it on, then. This is the way people swell, like the toad in the fable. 
They'll come down under the hill among little folks and say, "Brother 
Joseph, how I love you; can I do anything for you?" and then go 
away secretly and get up opposition, and sing out our names to stran- 
gers and scoundrels with an evil influence. I want all men to feel for 
me, when 1 have shook the bush and borne the burden in the heat of 
the day; and if they do not, I speak in authority, in the name of the 
Lord God, they shall be damned. 

Some say that the people on the flats are aggrandizing themselves by 
the Nauvoo House. But who laid the foundation of the Temple? 
Brother Joseph, in the name of the Lord, — not for his aggrandizement, 
but for the good of the whole of the Saints, Our speculators say, 
"Poor folks on the flat are down, and keep them down." How the 
Nauvoo House cheats this man and that man, say the speculators. 
Those who report such things as facts ought to hide their heads in 
hollow pumpkins, and never take them out again. 






A.D 1843] HISTOBY OF THE CHUKCH. 285 

The first principle brought into consideration is aggrandizement. 
Some think it unlawful; but it is lawful with any man, while he has 
a disposition to aggrandize all around him. It is a false principle for a 
man to aggrandize himself .at the expense of another . Everything 
that God does is to aggrandize His kingdom. And how does He lay the 
foundation? "Bnild a Temple to my great name, and call the attention 
of the great, the rich, and the noble.*' But where shall we lay our 
heads? In an old log cabin. 

I will whip Hirum Kimball and Esquire Wells, and everybody 
else, over Dr. Foster's head, who, instead of building the Nauvoo 
House, build a great many little skeletons. See Dr. Foster's mammoth 
skeletons rising all over the town; but there is no flesh on them; they 
are all for personal interest and aggrandizement. But I do not care 
how many bones there are in the city; somebody may come along and 
clothe them. See the bones of the elephant yonder, (as I pointed 
to the big house on Mulholland Street, preparing for a tavern, as yet 
uncovered,) the crocodiles and man-eaters all about the city, such as 
grog shops, and card shops, and counterfeit shops, &c, got up for their 
own aggrandizement, and all for speculation, while the Nauvoo House 
is neglected. Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. 
The building of the Nauvoo House is just as sacred in my view as the 
Temple. I want the Nauvoo House built. It must be built. Our sal- 
vation [as a city] depends upon it. -" 

When men have done what they can or will do for the Temple, let 
them do what they can for the Nauvoo House. We never can accom- 
plish one work at the expense of another. There is a great deal of 
murmuring in the Church about me; but I don't care anything about it. 
I like to hear it thunder, and I like to hear the Saints grumble; for the 
growling dog gets the sorest head. If any man is poor and afflicted, 
let him come and tell of it, and not complain or grumble about it. 

The finishing of the Nauvoo House is like a man finishing a fight; if 
he gives up, he is killed; if he holds out a little longer, he may live. 
I'll tell you a story: A man who whips his wife is a coward. When I 
was a boy, I once fought with a man who had whipped his wife. It 
was a hard contest; but I still remembered that he had whipped his 
wife; and this encouraged me, and I whipped him till he said he had 
enough. Brethren, hurry on to the Nauvoo House thus, and you will 
build it. You will then be on Pisgah's top, and the great men will 
come from the four quarters of the earth — will pile the gold and silver 
into it till you are weary of receiving them; and if you are not careful, 
you will be lifted up, and become full of pride, and will be ready to de- 
stroy, yourselves, and they will cover up and clothe all your former sins 
and, according to the scripture, will hide a multitude of sins; and you 



286 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

will shine forth fair as the sun, clear as the moon, and you will become 
terrible, like an army with banners. 

I will say to those who have labored on the Nauvoo House, and can- 
not get their pay — Be patient; and if any man takes the means which 
are set apart for the building* of that house, and applies it to his own 
use, let him, for he will destroy himself. If any man is hungry, let 
him come to me, and I will feed him at my table. If any are hungry 
or naked, don't take away the brick, timber and materials, that belong 
to that house, but come and tell me, and I will divide with them to the 
last morsel; and then if the man is not satisfied, I will kick his 
backside. 

There is a great noise in the city, and many are saying there cannot 
be so much smoke without some fire. Well, be it so. If the stories 
about Joe Smith are true, then the stories of John C. Bennett are true 
about the ladies of Nauvoo; and he says that the Ladies' Relief Society 
are all organized o£ those who are to be the wives of Joe Smith. 
Ladies, you know whether this is true or not. It is no use living 
^ among hogs without a snout. This biting and devouring each other I 
cannot endure. Away with it. For God's sake, stop it. 

There is one thing more I wish to speak about, and that is political 
economy. It is our duty to concentrate all our influence to make pop- 
ular that which is sound and good, and unpopular that which is un- 
sound. 'Tis right, politically, for a man who has influence to use it, as 
well as for a man who has no influence to use his. From henceforth I 
will maintain all the influence I can get. In relation to politics, I will 
speak as a man; but in relation to religion I will speak in authority. If 
a man lifts a dagger to kill me, I will lift my tongue. 

When I last preached, I heard such a groaning, I thought of the Pad- 
dy's eel. When he tried to kill it, he could not contrive any better 
way to do it, so he put it into the water to drown it; and as it began to 
come to, "See," said he, "what pain it is in; how it wiggles its tail." 
So it is with the nation: the banks are failing, and it is our privilege to 
say what kind of currency we want. We want gold and silver to build 
the Temple and Nauvoo House: we want your old nose-rings, and 
finger rings, and brass kettles no longer. If you have old rags, watches 
guns, &c, go and peddle them off, and bring the hard metal; and if we 
will do this by popular opinion, we shall have a sound currency. Send 
home all bank notes, and take no more paper money. Let every man 
write back to his neighbors before he starts for home to exchange his 
property for gold and silver,that he may fulfil the scripture, and come up 
to Zion, bringing his gold and silver with him. I have contemplated these 
things a long time, but the time had not come for me to speak of them 
till now. I would not do as the Nauvoo House committee have done — 



A.D. 1843J HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 287 

sell stock for an old store-house, where all the people who tried to live 
in it died, and put that stock into a man's hands to go east and pur- 
chase rags to come here and bniid mammoth bones with. 

As a political man, in the name of old Joe Smith, I command the 
Nauvoo House committee not to sell stock in the Nauvoo House without 
the gold or silver. We must excuse Brother Snider, for he was in Eng- 
land when the committee sold stock for the store-house. I leave this 
subject. 

This meeting was got up by the Nauvoo House committee. The 
pagans, Roman Catholics, Methodists and Baptists shall have place in 
Nauvoo — only they must be ground in Joe Smith's mill. I have been 
in their mill. I was ground in Ohio and York States, in a Presbyter- 
ian smut machine, and the last machine was in Missouri; and the last 
of all, I have been through the Illinois smut machine; and those who 
come here must go through my smut machine, and that is my tongue. 

As I closed, Dr. Robert D. Foster remarked to the assembly — "Much 
good may grow out of a very little, and much good may come out of 
this. If any man accuses me of exchanging Nauvoo stock for rags, &c, 
he is mistaken. I gave a thousand dollars to this house, (this he said 
upon his own responsibility) and fifty dollars to the Relief Society, and 
some to Fullmer to get stone to build Joseph a house; and I mean to 
build Joseph a house, and you may build this, and I will help you. I 
mean to profit by this: and I will divide the mammoth bones with you. 
I am guilty of all of which I have been charged. I have signed my 
name to a petition to have William H. Rollison to have the postofiice. 
I did not then know of a petition for Joseph Smith." 

I replied — "I thought I would make a coat; but it don't fit the doctor 
only in the postofiice. If it does fit any one let him put it on. The 
doctor's mammoth bones are skeletons, and as old Ezekiel said, I com- 
mand the flesh and sinews to come upon them, that they may be 
clothed." 

Wednesday, 22. — At nine this morning Brother Abel 
Owen presented a claim of considerable amount against 
Carter, Cahoon & Co., Kirtland, and notes of Oliver 
Granger of about $700 for payment. He said he was 
poor and unable to labor, and wanted something to live 
on. I told him to burn the papers, and I would help him. 
He gave me the papers, and I gave him an order on Mr. 
Cowan for fifteen dollars worth of provisions. This was 
a gift, as the Church was not obligated to pay those debts. 

I rode about the city with Mr. Cowan during the day, 
and also read German. 



288 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

The latest accounts from the East Indies state that the 
cholera was raging in Burmah, Asia, to a fearful extent, 
whole villages in the interior had become desolate either 
by flight or death. 

Thursday, 23. — This morning read German and rode 
out a few miles, but did not get off my horse. 

In the afternoon Mr. Bagby called to collect county and 
state taxes. Brother Dixon called concerning some lost 
or stolen property. I burned twenty-three dollars of city 
scrip, and while it was burning, said, "So may all un- 
sound and uncurrent money go down ! ' ' Gave my clerk 
instructions not to pay any more taxes on the Hotchkiss 
purchase. 

Elder Amasa Lyman started for Shokoquon this morn- 
ing and commenced preaching in that place. 

Piled my bond as mayor of the city of Nauvoo. 

Friday, 24. — Rode out with Elder Brigham Young; 
dined from home; called on Dr. Foster; had some conver- 
sation about the postoffice and several other matters; 
returned to my office; and at three o'clock walked out 
with Elder Young. 

In reply to W. W. Phelps's Vade Mecum, or "Go with 
me, 1 ' of 20th of January last, I dictated an answer: [It 
consisted of the ' 'Revelation known as the Vision of the 
Three Glories," Doctrine and Covenants, section lxxvi, 
made into verse.] 

Saturday, 25. — This morning Brother Samuel C Brown 
made me a present of a gold watch. Spent the forenoon 
in the city council. The council passed "An ordinance in 
relation to interments," "An ordinance in relation to the 
duties of city attorney," and an ordinance concerning a 
market on Main Street." Stephen Markham resigned his 
office as an alderman, and Wilson Law was elected to fill 
his place. 

At three o'clock the council assembled after an adjourn- 
ment for dinner. The subject of a sound currency for the 
city having previously arisen, I addressed the couucil at 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 289 

considerable length, giving, amongst others, the follow- 
ing hints. 

Views of the Prophet on Constitutional Powers. 

Situated as we are, with a flood of immigration constantly pouring in 
upon us, I consider that it is not only prudential, but absolutely neces- 
sary to protect the inhabitants of this city from being imposed upon by 
a spurious currency. Many of our eastern and old country friends are 
altogether unacquainted with the situation of the banks in this region 
of country; and as they generally bring specie with them, they are per- 
petually in danger of being gulled by speculators. Besides there is so 
much uncertainty in the solvency of the best of banks, that I think it 
much safer to go upon the hard money system altogether. I have 
examined the Constitution upon this subject and find my doubts 
removed. The Constitution is not a law, but it empowers the people to 
make laws. For instance, the Constitution governs the land of Iowa, 
but it is not a law for the people. The Constitution tells us what shall 
not be a lawful tender. The 10th section declares that nothing else 
except gold and silver shall be lawful tender, this is not saying that 
gold and silver shall be lawful tender. It only provides that the states 
may make a law to make gold and silver lawful tender. I know of no 
state in the Union that has passed such a law; and I am sure that Illi 
nois has not. The legislature has ceded up to us the privilege of enact- 
ing such laws as are not inconsistent with the Constitution of the United 
States and the state of Illinois; and we stand in the same relation to 
the state as the state does to the Union. The clause referred to in 
the Constitution is for the legislature — it is. not a law for the people- 
The different states, and even Congress itself, have passed many laws 
diametrically contrary to the Constitution of the United States. 

The state of Illinois has passed a stay law making property a lawful 
tender for the payment of debts; and if we have no law on the subject 
we must be governed by it. Shall we be such fools as to be governed 
by its laws, which are unconstitutional? No! We will make a law for 
gold and silver; and then the state law ceases and we can collect our^ 
debts. Powers not delegated to the states or reserved from the states 
are constitutional. The Constitution acknowledges that the people have 
all power not reserved to itself. I am a lawyer; I am a big lawyer and 
comprehend heaven, earth and hell, to bring forth knowledge that shall 
cover up all lawyers, doctors and other big bodies. This is the doctrine 
of the Constitution, so help me God. The Constitution is not law to us, 
but it makes provision for us whereby we can make laws. Where it 
provides that no one shall be hindered from worshiping God according 

19 Vol. V 



290 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |A.D. 1843 

to his own conscience, is a law. No legislature can enact a law to pro. 
hibit it. The Constitution provides to regulate bodies of men and not 
individuals. 

Alderman Wells and Counselor Orson Pratt objected to 
the ordinance regulating the currency from taking imme- 
diate effect. Orson Spencer and Brigham Young spoke in 
favor of the bill. I invited W. W. Phelps and Dr. Wil- 
lard Richards, who were present, to give their opinion on 
the bill. They both spoke in favor of a gold and silver 
currency, and that it take immediate effect in the city. 

The bill was postponed until the next council. 

Sunday, 26. — At home all day. My mother was sick 
with inflammation of the lungs, and I nursed her with my 
own hands. 

Monday, 27. — I nursed my mother most of the day, 
who continued very sick. I issued a search warrant for 

Brother Dixon to search Fidler's and John 

Eagle's houses for a box of stolen shoes. 

Tuesday, 28. — Mostly with my mother and family. 
Mr. John Brassfield, with whom I became acquainted 
in Missouri, called on me and spent the day and night. In 
the afternoon, mother was somewhat easier; and at 
four o'clock I went to Elder Orson Hyde's to dinner. 

I saw a notice in the Chicago Express that one Hyrum 
Redding had seen the sign of the Son of Man, &c; and 
I wrote to the editor of the Times and Seasons, as 
follows: 

The "Sign" of the Son of Man. 

Sir: — Among the many signs of the times and other strange things 
which are continually agitating the minds of men, I notice a small spec- 
ulation in the Chicago Express, upon the certificate of one Hyrum Red- 
ding, of Ogle county, Illinois, stating that he has seen the sign of the 
Son of Man as foretold in the 24th chapter of Matthew. 

The slanderous allusion of a "seraglio" like the Grand Turk, which 
the editor applies to me, he may take to himself, for, "out of the 
abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." Every honest mau who 
has visited the city of Nauvoo since it existed, can bear record of better 
things, and place me in the front ranks of those who are known to do 



A.D. 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 291 

good for the sake of goodness, and show all liars, hypocrites and abom- 
inable creatures that, while vice sinks them down to darkness and woe, 
virtue exalts me and the Saints to light and immortality. 

The editor, as well as some others, "thinks that Joe Smith has his 
match at last," because Mr. Redding thinks that he has seen the sign of 
the Son of Man. 0iu.t I shall use my right, and declare that, notwith- 
standing Mr. Redding may have seen a wonderful appearance in the 
clouds one morning about sunrise (which is nothing very uncommon in 
the winter season,) he has not seen the sign of the Son of Man, as fore- 
told by Jesus; neither has any man, nor will any man, until after the 
sun shall have been darkened and the moon bathed in blood; for the 
Lord hath not shown me any such sign; and as the prophet saith, so it 
must be — "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but He revealeth His 
secret unto His servants the prophets." (See Amos 3:7.) Therefore 
hear this, earth: The Lord will not come to reign over the righteous, 
in this world, in 1843, nor until everything for the Bridegroom is 

ready^ 

Yours respectfully, 

Joseph Smith. 



292 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. H-l>. 184J 



CHAPTER XVI. 

ATTEMPT TO REPEAL PARTS OF THE NAUVOO CHARTER — GOLD 
AND SILVER ALONE MADE LEGAL TENDER IN NAUVOO — 
SIGNS IN THE HEAVENS — "THE WASP" CHANGED INTO 
U THE NAUVOO NEIGHBOR" — SUSPICIONS OF THE PROPH- 
ET AGAINST SIDNEY RIGDON. 

Wednesday j March 2, 1843. — This morning I read and 
recited in German, went to my office, and reviewed my 
valedictory letter in the Times and Seasons, No. 7, Vol. 4; 
after which, I went with Marshal Henry Gr. Sherwood 
to procure some provisions for Thomas Morgan and Robert 
Taylor, who, on petition of the inhabitants of the city, I 
had directed should work out their punishment on the 
highways of Nauvoo. 

Elder Orson Hyde called on me this afternoon to bor- 
The Prophet's row a horse. I instructed my ostler to put the 
cheerfulness. Lieutenant-General's saddle on my horse, 
"Joe Duncan," and let Elder Hyde ride the * 'governor" 
on the Lieutenant- General's saddle. 

Signed a power of attorney, dated February 28th, to 
Amasa Lyman, to sell all the lands in Henderson county, 
Illlinois, deeded to me by Mr. McQueen. 

The Mississippi froze up on the 19th of November last, 
and still continues so. Wagons and teams constantly 
pass over on the ice to Montrose. 

I am constantly receiving applications from abroad for 
elders, which were replied to in the Times and Seasons of 
this day — that the conference on the 6th of April next, 
will attend to as many of the applications as possible. 

The council of the Twelve Apostles wrote to Ramus, 
Lima, Augusta, and other branches, as follows: — 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 293 

Ihe 'licelve to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in and 
about Ramus, greeting: — 

Beloved Brethren: — As our beloved President Joseph Smith is 
now relieved from his bondage and his business, temporarily, and his 
property, too, he has but one thing to hinder his devoting his time to 
the spiritual interests of the Church, to the bringing forth of the reve- 
lations, translation, and history. And what is that? He has not pro- 
vision for himself and family, and is obliged to spend his time in pro- 
viding therefor. His family is large and his company great, and it re- 
quires much to furnish his table. And now, brethren, we call on you 
for immediate relief in this matter; and we invite you to bring our Pres- 
ident as many loads of wheat, corn, beef, pork, lard, tallow, eggs, 
poultry, venison, and everything eatable at your command, (not exept- 
ing unfrozen potatoes and vegetables, as soon as the weather will ad- 
mit^ flour, etc., and thus give him the privilege of attending to your spir- 
itual interest. 

The measure you mete shall be measured to you again. If you give 
liberally to your President in temporal things, God will return to you 
liberally in spiritual and temporal things too. One or two good new 
milch cows are much needed also. 

Brethren, will you do your Tvork, and let the President do his for you 
before God? We wish an immediate answer by loaded teams or letter. 

Your brethren in Christ, in behalf of the quorum, 

Brigham Young, President. 

Willard Richards, Clerk. 

P. S. Brethren, we are not unmindful of the favors our President has 
leceived from you in former days. But a man will not cease to be 
hungry this year because he ate last year. 

B. Y. 

W. E. 

Some thirty inhabitants of Saratogo, New York, have 
died recently of a disease called the black tongue. 

About this time, a slide from Mount Ida, near Troy, 
New York, took place, burying ten houses and killing 
thirty or forty persons. 

Thursday, 2. — I was engaged in the court- room, sitting 
on the case of Charles R. Dana versus William B. Brink 
all day. In the evening, examining Blackstone and Phil- 
lips on evidence. 

I visited with Elders Brigham Young and Orson Hyde, 
with their wives, at Elder Heber C. Kimball's. 



294 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

The legislature of Illinois took up the bill to repeal the 
Nauvoo City Charter. 

Nauvoo Charter in the House of the Illinois Legislature. 

Mr. Davis, of Bond county, moved to take up the bill to repeal a part 
of the Nauvoo Charter. Objections being made by several members, 
it was decided in the affirmative, and placed on the orders of the day; 
the question being un ordering the bill to a third reading. 

Mr. Simins moved the previous question. 

Mr. Logan hoped the previous question would not be sustained. Some 
of the provisions proposed to be repealed are very innocent ones, and 
he thought the house would be willing to retain them. He wanted to 
repeal the provisions allowing the writ of habeas corpus and some 
others. The previous question was then lost. 

Mr. Logan denied that any discussion had been had on the provisions 
of the Charter proposed to be repealed. He wanted the gentlemen inter- 
ested to have an opportunity to be heard. 

Mr. Thomas B. Owen, of Hancock, went into the subject at some 
length. He compared the Charter of Nauvoo with any other city in the 
State, and showed that the bill repealed the same powers in the Nauvoo 
Charter which others contained and are permitted to retain. He thought 
this unjust, and was opposed to the principle of making such distinc- 
tions. He bore testimony to the good order and industry of the Mor- 
mons, and he had no doubt but they were much abused. 

He alluded to the course of the Whigs during the canvass of the last 
election, and appealed to his party to sustain the Mormons, as they had 
so nobly carried the last election. He cautioned them against taking 
the other course, and predicted, if they did, that they would be the 
means of electing a Whig to Congress in that district, and at the next 
gubernatorial election would elect the governor also; that the arms of 
the Whigs were open to receive them [The "Mormons.''] 

Friday, 3. — I was again sitting on the case of Dana 
versus Brink until half -past ten p. m. Many witnesses 
were examined, many lawyers' pleas made, and much law 
read. It was a very tedious suit, and excited much feel- 
ing among the people. When I returned home, I found 
my mother's health improving. In company with Dr. 
Willard Richards I visited Sister Durphy, who was sick. 

Bishop Newel K. Whitney returned from Eamus this 
evening, with five teams loaded with provisions and grain, 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 295 

as a present to me, which afforded rue very seasonable 
relief. I pray the Lord to bless those who gave it abund- 
antly ; and may it be returned upon their heads an hun- 
dred fold ! 

Action oj the House Repealing Part oj the Nauvoo Charter, 

Mr. William Smith, of Hancock, moved a roll call of the house (some 
members were leaving). 

The bill passed by yeas and nays, as follows: — 

Yeas — Messrs. Aldrich, Baillache, Bell, Blakeman, Bone, Brinkley, 
Brown (of Sangamon), Burklow, Busey, Caldwell, Cloud, Cochran, 
Compton, Courtright, Danner, Dollins, Douglas, Edwards, Epler, Er- 
vin, Ewing, Ficklin, Flanders, Fowler, Glass, Gobble, Haley, Hain- 
baugh, Hick, Hickman, Hinton, Horney, Howard, Hunsucker, Keorner* 
Kuykendall, Lawler, Loy, McClernand, Marshall, Menard, Mitchell. 
Murphy, Nesbit, Norris, Penn, Shurley, Simms, Thomson, Turner, 
Vance, Vinyard, Weatherford, Wheat, White, Whitten, Wilson and 
Woodworth— 58. 

Nays — Messrs. Adams, Ames, Andrus, Arnold, Brown (of Pike), 
Browning, Collins, Cushman, Dougherty; Dubois, Graves, Hanniford,. 
Hanson, Harper, Hatch, Jackson (of McHenry), Jackson (of White- 
side), Jonas, Kendall, Langwortby, Lockhart, Logan, McDonald (of 
Calhoun), McDonald (of Joe Davis), Owen, Pickering, Smith (of Craw- 
ford), Smith (of Hancock), Spicer, Stewart, Tackerbury, Vandever, 
Whiteomb, and Mr. Speaker — 33. 

The Speaker: The bill is passed. The title of the bill:— (The Speaker 
recited the title of the bill). 

Mr. Smith, of Hancock: I wish to amend the title of the bill. (Pro- 
found silence.) , 

The Speaker: The title has passed. 

By several members: In time, in time. 

Mr. Smith sent his amendment to the chair. 

The Speaker: The amendment is not respectful, and not in order. 

Great sensation. Several members called for a reading of the amend- 
ment. 

The amendment was read — il A bill for an act to humbug the citizens 
of Nauvoo." (Profound sensation. ) 

Mr. Smith said he considered the, amendment as perfectly describing 
the contents of the bill. He was anxious that things should be called 
by their right names. 

The chair decided that the amendment was not in order. 

A member: I wish a vote, to ascertain if the house does not sustain 
the decision of the chair. 



296 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. lA.D. 1843 

Mr. Smith withdrew his amendment. 
The title of the bill then passed. 

English papers report an eruption of Mount Etna ; con- 
siderable torrents of lava flowing towards Bronte, doing 
immense damage. 

Saturday, 4. — In council with Brother Benjamin F. 
Johnson and others from Ramus, on the subject of build- 
ing a meetinghouse there, out of Church prop- 
msposin°gof erty. I told them the property of the Church 
church Prop- s k uld be disposed of by the direction of the 
Trustee-in-Trust, appointed by the voice of the 
whole«Church, and made the following comparison: — There 
is awheel; Nauvoo is the hub: we will drive the first spoke 
in Ramus, second in La Harpe, third Shokoquon, fourth 
in Lima: that is half the wheel. The other half is over 
the river: we will let that alone at present. We will call 
the Saints from Iowa to these spokes, then send elders 
over and convert the whole people. 

I agreed to go to Ramus this day week. 

At ten o'clock, I attended the city council.- 

The Questions of "Currency^ and Blood Atonement , in the Nauvoo 

City Council. 

Prayer by George A. Smith, when a bill regulating 1 the currency was 
read; and, as the Legislature of Illinois have long been trying to repeal 
the charter of Nauvoo, I made some remarks (as I had frequently done 
on former occasions), to show the council and others that the legislature 
can not constitutionally repeal a charter where there is no repealing 
clause. After which, I read a letter from James Arlington Bennett, 
dated February 1, 1843, which confirms my decision. 

In debate, George A. Smith said imprisonment was better than hang- 
ing. 

I replied, I was opposed to hanging, even if a man kill another, I 
will shoot him, or cut off his head, spill his blood on the ground, and 
let the smoke thereof ascend up to God; and if ever I have the privilege 
of making a law on that subject, I will have it so. 

In reply to some of the councilors, who thought it impolitic to stop 
circulating bank notes as currency at once, I replied, I would use a 
figure, and talk like some foolish fathers do to their children. If you 
want to kill a serpent, don't cut off his head, for fear he will bite you; 



A.D. 1843 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 297 

but cut off his tail, piece by piece, and perhaps you won't get bit. It 
s the same with this bill. I say, if paper currency is an evil, put it 
down at once. When councilors get up here, I want them to speak 
sense. Great God, where is common sense and reason? Is there none 
on the earth? Why have the canker remaining any longer to sap our 
life? If you get hold of a $5 bill, you can get nothing with it. There is 
no one who dares to touch it, fearing it to be a counterfeit, or the note 
of a broken bank. I wish you had my soul long enough to know how good 
it feels. I say it is expedient when you strike at an enemy, to strike 
the most deadly blow possible. 

Councilor Hyde asked me what an editor should do. I told him, ad- 
vertise in your next paper to your agents to send you gold and silver, 
as paper will no longer be taken as pay.* 

The ordinance regulating currency in the city passed by a unanimous 
vote, as follows: — 

ORDINANCE. 

Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the City Council of the city of Nauvoo, that, 
from and after the passage of this bill, gold and silver coin only can be 
received a lawful tender in payment of city taxes and of debts, and also 
of fines imposed under the ordinances of the city. 

Sec. 2. That city scrip shall not hereafter be emitted as monied cur- 
rency; provided, however, that nothing in this bill shall be so construed 
as to prevent the redemption of previous emissions. 

Sec. 3. That any person passing counterfeit gold, or silver, or copper 
coin, or counterfeit or spurious paper currency, or aiding or abetting 
therein, or holding the same with intent to pass it, knowing it to be 
such, shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five thousand dollars, or to 
imprisonment or hard labor in the city, for a term not exceeding four- 
teen years, or all these penalties at the discretion of the court. 

Sec. 4. That any person passing a paper currency, or aiding and 
abetting therein, or holding the same with intent to pass it within the 
bounds of this city corporation, shall be liable to a fine of one dollar for 
every dollar thus offered or passed, to be recovered as in action of debt; 
one-half of said fine to be paid to the complainant, the other half to the 
said corporation. 

Joseph Smith, Mayor. 

I was re-elected Registrar of Deeds for the city. 

Dr. Samuel Bennett was chosen Alderman, and Albert P. Rockwood, 
Elijah Fordham, and Charles C. Rich, Firewardens in the city. 

* These remarks and the passage of the ordinance making gold and silver alone 
Legal Tender in Nauvoo is further evidence that the Prophet regarded Nauvoo* 
under her charter as a "city state" — see the subject discussed in Introduction to 
Vol, IV of this History, pp. xxii-xxv. 



298 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. (A.D. 1843 

By my suggestion, the Committee on Public Works were instructed 
to prepare an ordinance to provide for the erection of a city prison. 

On returning to my office after dinner, I spoke the fol- 
ltemsofin- lowing proverb : For a man to be great, he 
s traction. must not dwell on small things, though he 

may enjoy them; this shows that a Prophet cannot 
well be his own scribe, but must have some one to write 
for him. 

The battle of Gog and Magog will be after the millen- 
nium. The remnant of all the nations that fificht against 
Jerusalem were commanded to go up to Jerusalem to wor- 
ship in the millennium, 

I told Dr. Richards that there was one thing he failed 
in as a historian, and that was noting surrounding objects, 
weather, etc. 

I dictated to my scribe my decision in the case of Brink 
versus Dana, until half-past four p. m. 

This day, Mr. Warren, in the State Senate, 
Parts of the moved to take from the table the bill to repeal 
ter U oefeated r the charter of the city of Nauvoo; but the 

in the Senate. ^^ refuged to repea i ^ Naygj yj . aye ^ 16 

Orrin. Porter Rockwell was taken prisoner in St. Louis 
by the Missourians, on an advertisement accusing him of 
shooting ex-Governor Boggs on the 6th day of May, 1842. 

Sunday, 5. — I stayed at home all day to take care of my 
mother, who was still sick. 

A severe-shock of an earthquake felt at Memphis, Tenn. 

Monday, 0\ — I read, in the Boston Bee, a letter from 
Elder George J. Adams, and also another communication 
showing the progress of the truth in Boston and vicinity. 
At 'nine o'clock, called in my office, and requested Dr. 
Richards to write to the Bee; after which, I recited in 
German until dinner, and in the evening rode out to visit 
the sick. 

The Municipal Court was in session to hear any com- 
plaints against the city assessment, but none appeared. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 299 

In the evening a grand display of burning prairie on the 
Iowa side of the river. 

Tuesday, 7. — I was in my office at nine a. m. , and re- 
viewed my decision in the case of Brink versus Dana, and 
conversing with Dr. Richards on the subject of medicine. 
After dinner, I executed several deeds for city lots, and 
settled with the purchasers, assisted by William Clayton. 

Brother David Manhard, of Lee county, Iowa, brought 
me two loads of corn and one hog; for which may the 
Lord bless him ! 

East wind through the day. Commenced raining at 
three p. m. 

Wednesday, 8. — In office at eight a. m., and signed 
some documents in relation to the Nauvoo Legion, and 
also settling with William Ford. Rode out with Mr. John 
B. Cowan in the evening. 

In the evening, a meeting was held in the house of 
Elder Heber C. Kimball, which was crowded. He preached 
from Jeremiah xviii, 2-5, on the figure of clay in the hands 
of the potter. 

The ship Yorkshire left Liverpool, England, with eighty- 
three Saints on board, under the supervision of Elders 
Thomas Bullock and Richard Rushton. 

A terrible earthquake occurred at Guadeloupe and other 
West India Islands. Thousands of persons buried under 
the ruins of the fallen houses. 

Thursday, 9. — Mr. John B. Cowan took the decision of 
Judge Pope in the United States District Court, on the 
5th January last, and other papers relating precaution 
thereto, also Mr. Butterfield's opinion, to lay sfurT^^ove- 
before the governor of Iowa, in order to in- ^Prophet st 
duce him to recall a writ issued on the requi- iu Iowa - 
sition of the governor of Missouri, for my arrest, in case 
I should visit my friends in Iowa. 

I told Brother Phelps that he should be a lawyer and 
understand law, and the time will come when I shall not 



300 HISTOEY OP THE CHUECH. |A.D. 1843 

need say to you, Thus and thus is the law; for you shall 
know it. 

E. H. Mower wrote rne from Clinton county, Indiana, 
that he had recently baptized thirty-two, and a great many* 
-were inquiring after the truth. 

William 0. Clark gave me a load of corn, and Sanford 
Porter gave me a hog. 

Rain and sleet the whole of the day. 

Friday, 10. — Clear and cold day. 

I opened court at ten a. m. Messrs. Emmons and 
Skinner, counsel for plaintiff; and Messrs. Marr and Rig- 
don, counsel for defendant. Parties to the suit present 
and many spectators.* Court decided after full hearing 
of the case that plaintiff recover from the defendant the 
sum of his bill, ninety-nine dollars and cost. After I had 
delivered my decision, I referred to the threat of the de- 
fendant's counsel to intimidate, etc. Counsel explained 
satisfactorily. 

I directed Lucien Woodworth to fix a room to confine 
the city prisoners in. 

I told Theodore Turley that I had no objection to his 
building a brewery. 

PROVERB. 

"As finest steel doth show a brighter polish 

The more you rub the same, 
E'en so in love rebuke will ne'er demolish 

A wise man's goodly name," 

I issued an execution against Dr. Brink, and a search- 
warrant on oath of William Law, to search the house of 
Dial Sherwood. In the evening, the marshal brought two 
try squares, one padlock, one shirt; also a bit stock, 
smoothing-plane, and other tools, some of which were 
claimed as stolen property. 

Friday, 10.— With Willard Richards, Wilford Woodruff 

* The case was one in which mal-practice was charged against Dr. William B. 
Brink in a case of accouchement of Charles A. Dana's wife. 



A.D. 1843 J . HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 301 

and many others, about seven p. m., I discovered a 
stream of light in the southwest quarter of the heavens. 
Its pencil rays were in the form of a broad signs in the 
sword, with the hilt downward, the blade HeaTens - 
raised, pointing from the west, southwest, raised 
to an angle of forty-five degrees from the horizon, and 
extending nearly, or within two or three degrees to the 
zenith of the degree where the sign appeared. This sign 
gradually disappeared from half-past seven o'clock, and 
at nine had entirely disappeared. As sure as there is a 
God who sits enthroned in the heavens, and as sure as He 
ever spoke by me, so sure will there be a speedy and 
bloody war; and the broad sword seen this evening is the 
sure sign thereof. 

Last night I dreamed that a silver-headed old man 
came to me and said there was a mob force coming upon 
him, and he was likely to lose his life. He had heard 
that I was a lieutenant-general, having the The Prophet's 
command of a large force, and that I always Dream - 
sought to defend the oppressed, and that I was also a 
patriot, and disposed to protect the innocent and 
unoffending; and he wanted that I should protect him, 
and had come to hear with his own ears what I would say 
to him. I told him I wanted some written documents to 
show the facts that they [the mob] were the aggressors, 
and I would raise a force sufficient to protect him, and 
would collect the Legion. The old man turned to go from 
me. When he got a little distance, he suddenly turned 
again, and said to me, "You must call out the Legion/' 
and he would have the papers ready when I arrived. 
And, said he, "I have any amount of men, which you can 
have under your command." 

A shock of an earthquake felt in Lancashire, England, 
and on the Isle of Guernsey, produced considerable 
alarm. 

The papers teem with accounts of singular phenomena. 
Fearful sights are seen in all parts of the world. 



302 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1843 

Saturday , 11. — Very cold last night. The water froze 
in the warmest rooms in the city. 

At nine a. in., I started in company with Brother 
Brigham Young, to Ramus, and had a delightful drive. 
Arrived at Brother McClary's at a quarter to four. Lodged 
with Brother Benjamin F. Johnson. In the evening, 
when pulling sticks, I pulled up Justus A. Morse, the 
strongest man in Eamus, with one hand. 

It is reported in the papers that the workmen employed 
on the General Fratt (a steamboat which was burned and 
sunk last fall near Memphis in the Mississippi,) with a 
• diving bell, on the 3rd of January, found the wreck in 
about twenty- four feet of water. On that night was an 
earthquake. Next day the wreck had disappeared, no 
trace could be found, and the water was from one hundred 
to one hundred and twenty feet deep, and for about one 
hundred feet no bottom; and in another place a bar was 
discovered where previously was deep water. 

The Neiu York Herald publishes "The Vision" in 
poetry, &c. ; also Miss Eliza R. Snow's Festival Song; — 
an unusual act of liberality towards the Saints, for a 
publisher. 

r~l$unday, 12. — I preached to the Saints at Ramus, in 
The Prophet the morning, taking for a text 14th chapter 
at Ramus. f j hn, 2nd verse: — "In my Father's house 
are many mansions. 7 ' 

I found the brethren well, and in good spirits. In the 
afternoon, Brother Brigham preached. Stayed at Brother 
Benjamin F. Johnson's all night. 

Elder George J. Adams having been called to Nauvoo, 
twelve hundred inhabitants of Boston petitioned for 
Elders Heber 0. Kimball and Orson Hyde to come and 
labor in that place. A similar petition was also sent from 
Salem, Massachusetts, by Elder Erastus Snow. 

Monday, 13. — I wrestled with William Wall, the 
most expert wrestler in Ramus, and threw him. 

In the afternoon, held a Church meeting. Almon W. 



AD. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 303 

Babbitt was appointed, by the vote of the people, the 
presiding elder of that place. 

In the evening meeting twenty-seven children were 
blessed, nineteen of whom I blessed myself, with great 
fervency. Virtue went out of me, and my strength left 
me, when I gave up the meeting to the brethren. 

Mercury was three degrees below zero, at sunrise in 
Nauvoo. 

Mr. Ivins arrived at Nauvoo, and stated that Orrin Port- 
er Rockwell came with him from New Jersey to St. Louis, 
when Rockwell was arrested by advertisement on the 4th 
of March, and put in St. Louis jail. 

Elder Hyde went to Quincy to preach. 

Newspapers report that iron filings and sulphur have 
fallen in the form of a snow storm in five counties in 
Missouri. 

Tuesday, 14. — Elder Jedediah M. Grant enquired of me 
the cause of my turning pale and losing 

- i i.i it • i-ii ? TheProphet's 

strength last night while blessing children. I Explanation 
told him that 1 saw that Lucifer would exert went Out of 
his influence to destroy the children that I was 
blessing, and I strove with all the faith and spirit that I 
had to seal upon them a blessing that would secure their 
lives upon the earth ; and so much virtue went out of me 
into the children, that I became weak, from which I have 
not yet recovered; and I referred to the case of the 
woman touching the hem of the garment of Jesus. 
(Luke, 8th chapter). The virtue here referred to is the 
spirit of life; and a man who exercises great faith in 
administering to the sick, blessing little children, or 
confirming, is liable to become weakened. 

Elder Brigham Young and myself returned from 
Ramus, and after a severely cold ride in a heavy snow- 
storm, arrived in Nauvoo about four p. m. 

Mr. Wilson, the assessor for the county of Hancock, 
assessed a number of lots to Dr. Willard Richards, which 
he had previously assessed to me as trustee in trust, in 



s 



30-4 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. 184^ 

order no doubt, to collect taxes twice, for the benefit of 
his own pocket, or to make trouble to the "Mormons;" 
about which the following letter was written : 

Willard Richards to Mr. Bagby, Anent Taxes. 

Mr. Bagby, — Sir: — I received an anonymous letter this morning, 
which was dated at Warsaw, requesting an immediate answer. I know 
not to whom to direct the answer; but as it appears to be concerning 
taxes, I suppose it most probable that you are the person, and direct 
my answer accordingly. 

I received your letter from Carthage, and requested Mr. Clayton to 
answer it, which he did, stating the facts in the case, which, in sub- 
stance, I will repeat: 

In the year 1842 I had no taxable property in Illinois, real or 
personal. I never erave Mr. Wilson, the assessor, a list by which to assess 
lots to me. If ever I gave him any list, it was to assist him in the informa- 
tion what lots to assess to the "trustee in trust, 15 and for no other pur- 
pose; which Mr. Wilson verv well knew at the time, and now knows it* 

You ask, "What shall I do with the lots?" I answer, "They are 
lots which on another part of your list, are assessed to the trustee in 
trust, or Mr. Smith; and, doubtless, it would be the most just and 
equitable course for the assessor to correct his error, and let the matter 
rest where it was originally. But if this cannot be, you must take your 
own course. It is not for me to advise you in your duty. But of this 
I can advise you — that I have not the first farthing of personal property 
liable to taxation in this county, or to be sold for taxes this side of 
eternity. 

Yours respectfully, 

Willard Richards. 

At half -past seven o'clock in the evening, the sword 
which had made its appearance [in the heavens] for 
several evenings past, moved up nearer the moon and 
formed itself into a large ring round the moon. Two balls 
immediately appeared in the ring opposite each other, 
something in the form of sun-dogs. 

Wednesday, 15. — I wrote a letter to George J. Adams, 
The wasp an d signed several deeds. In the office most 
changed to f ^he day. Gave the following name to 

The Nauvoo J ° 

Neighbor. the Wasp, enlarged as is contemplated — 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 305 

The Nauvoo Neighbor, our motto, "The Saints' Singularity 
is Union, Liberty, Charity." The following is an extract 
from the prospectus of this date: 

Prospectus of the Nauvoo Neighbor, 

We feel pleasure in announcing to our readers and the public generally 
that we have determined to enlarge the Wasp to double its size, as soon 
as the present volume shall be completed, which will be on the 19th of 
April. 

It made its appearance in the world near twelve months ago, small 
in stature, dressed in a very humble garb, and under very inauspicious 
circumstances. It was then thought by mauy that its days would not 
be long in the land, and that at any rate it would not survive the sickly 
season. Many of its elder brethern, who thought that they had 
attained to the size of manhood, sneered contemptuously at the idea of 
their smaller and younger brother taking the field; and, like David's 
brethren, they thought that he was but a stripling, and that he would 
certainly fall by the hand of some of the great Goliaths. But, on the 
contrary, while some of advanced years, noble mien, and possessing a 
more formidable appearance, have given up the ghost, the little Wasp 
has held on in the even tenor of his way, the untiring, unflinching 
supporter of integrity, righteousness and truth, neither courting the 
smiles nor fearing the frowns of political demagogues, angry partisans, 
or fawning sycophants. Partaking so much of the nature of the 
industrious bee, it has gathered honey from every flower, and its pages 
are now read with interest by a large and respectable number of 
subscribers. 

As the young gentleman is now nearly a year old, we propose on his 
birthday to put on him a new dress, and to make him double the size, 
that he may begin to look up to the world, and not be ashamed of 
associating with his older brethren. And as he has acted the part of a 
good Samaritan, we propose giving him a new name. Therefore his 
name shall no longer be called the "Wasp," but the "Neighbor." 

I prophesied, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, 
that Orrin Porter Rockwell would get away . . 

° •* A Prophecy as 

honorably from the Missourians. I cautioned to Orrin Pon- 

tt i'i r»*niTT er Rockwell. 

Peter Hawes to correct his boys : for if he did 

not curtail them in their wickedness, they would 

eventually go to prison. 

20 Vol. v. 



306 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. f A.D. 1843 

1 dreamed last night that I was swimming in a river of 
pure water, clear as crystal, over a shoal of fish of the 
largest size I ever saw. They were directly under my 
belly. I was astonished, and felt afraid that they might 
drown me or do me injury. 

The Wasp has the following editorial : — 

Ihe Nauvoo Charter — A Guaranteed Perpetual Succession. 

What reliance can be placed upon a legislature that will one session 
errant a charter to a city, with "perpetual succession," and another ses- 
sion take it away? We expect, however, that this honorable body be- 
lieve in the common adage — * 'Promises and pie-crusts are made to be 
broken,-' and we have sometimes ourselves seen boys crying for their 
marbles again, after they have given them away. 

We suppose, however, with them, that the words 'perpetual succession" 
do not mean what they say. The house, in the dignity of its standing, 
passes a bill, at the request of the people, telling them that they shall 
have a charter granting them several privileges, and telling them that 
it shall be perpetual, without any repealing clause. It is made a law, 
and the grand seal of state appended to it. The people, on the good 
faith of the state, go to work and improve under the provisions of that 
charter. Companies are formed, buildings are erected, and money ex- 
pended; but by-and-by they find out that they have been leaning upon 
a broken reed, that there is no dependence to be placed in government, 
that they [the legislature] have broken their most sacred promises, 
violated their plighted faith, and wantonly and wickedly sought to in- 
jure thousands of men who relied on their promises, by an unprece- 
dented, unconstitutional, and tyrannical law, trampling under foot the 
faith of the state, and virtually saying that the members of the legis. 
lature that granted the charter were all fools or knaves, and that we, 
the pure representatives of the people, must break the plighted faith of 
the state to set them right! 

The New York Herald gives a list of indebtedness of the 
several states who refuse to pay the same, as follows: — 

Indebtedness of the States. 

Pennsylvania, $29,129,123; Georgia, $3,184,323; Indiana, $12,129,339 
Maryland, $20,901,040; Louisiana, $21,213,000; Mississippi, $5,500,000 
Illinois, $13,836,379; Alabama, $9,S43,536; Arkansas, $3,900,000 
Michigan, $5,611,000; Florida, $3,500,000. 



A.D. 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 307 

A great fire at Valparaiso, unequalled heretofore in Chili, 
Damage $2,000,000. 

Thursday, 16. — In the office, reading papers, and gave 
counsel to Brother Hyram, Dr. Foster, and many others. 

Friday, 17. — Part of the day in my office ; the remainder 
at home. 

Settled with Father Perry; gave him a deed for eighty 
acres of land and city lot, and prophesied that it would 
not be six months before he could sell it for cash. 

At four p. m., Newel K. Whitney brought in a letter 
from R. S. Blennarhassett, Esq., St. Louis, dated 7th 
instant, concerning Orrin Porter Rockwell ; which I imme- 
diately answered. 

Reports reached us that new indictments had been found 
against myself, Brother Hyrum, and some hun- Renewal of 
dred others, on the old Missouri troubles, and oid Missouri 
that John C. Bennett was making desperate 
threats. 

The Island of Hong-Kong was ceded to Great Britain 
by the Emperor of China, who opened five ports to the 
English trade by treaty. 

Saturday, 18. — I was most of the forenoon in the office, 
in cheerful conversation with Dr. Willard Richards and 
others. Finishing writing a letter to Arlington Bennett. 

About noon, I lay down on the writing table, with my 
head on a pile of law books, saying, " Write ThePro het 
and tell the world I acknowledge myself a "studying" 

n Law! 

very great lawyer; I am going to study law, 

and this is the way I study it;" and then fell asleep. 

Rode out in the afternoon with William Clayton, look- 
ing at lots for Bishop Newel K. Whitney, and afterwards 
played ball with the boys. 

The French seized upon the Society group of Pacific 
Isles. 

Sunday, 1 9.— Rode out with Emma and visited my 
farm; returned about eleven, a, m., and spent the re- 
mainder of the dav at home. 



308 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A..D. 1843 

Dirnick B. Huntington started for Chicago, with a letter 
to Mr. Justin Butterfield, U. S. Attorney, concerning 
Orrin Porter Rockwell. 

Received a letter from Elder Parley P. Pratt, giving a 
synopsis of his mission to England since August, 1839, in 
The work of which I find he has published, since April, 
R ld p e rat P Hn ey 18il , (at which time the remainder of the 
England. Twelve returned home,) 1,500 ''Hymn Books," 

2,500 "Voice of Warning," 3,000 Tracts, entitled "Heaven 
on Earth," 3,000 copies of "Elder Hyde's Mission to 
Jerusalem," 10,000 copies of "A Letter to the Queen," 
and some other works, and continued the Star monthly. 
He left England October 20, 1842, and, after a voyage of 
ten weeks, arrived in New Orleans, being ice-bound on 
the river; and having a dislike to the outlaws who govern 
Missouri, he wintered at Chester, Illinois. On the news 
of his arrival, he was warmly pressed to preach, which he 
did several times, and baptized two men in that place. 

Sir James South, Sir John Herschel, and other astron- 
omers in Europe have published notices of the sword 
Scientists on seen in the heavens on the eve of the 10th and 
the comet. several successive evenings. They represent 
it as the stray tail of a comet, as no nucleus could be dis- 
covered with the most powerful instruments. At Paris, 
M. Arago communicated to the Academy of Sciences, on 
the subject of the comet, that the observations of the 
astronomers were not complete, the nucleus not being dis- 
covered. 

Monday, 20. — I rode out to see Hiram Kimball, with 
Mrs. Butterfield, about a deed for the Lawrence estate. 
Settled with Dr. Robert D. Foster, and gave him a note 
to balance all demands; and afterwards acknowledged 
about twenty deeds to different individuals, which occupied 
my time until about three p.m. 

A letter appears in the Millennial Star, giving particu- 
lars of the passage of the ship S wanton, from Liverpool, 
and arrival at New Orleans, loaded with Saints, in which 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 309 

the power of the holy priesthood was manifested in the 
healing of the sick: — 

Excerpt of Letter from Millennial Star. 

The stewart of this vessel was so injured by a blow from one of the 
crew, that his life was despaired of; and I stood over him for some 
time, and thought that life was gone. The captain had administered to 
him all that he could think of in the way of medicine, but to no effect; 
and after they gave up all hopes of his recovery, at twelve o'clock at 
night, he sent for Elder Lorenzo Snow,* and by anointing him with oil, 
and the laying on of hands, in the name of the Lord, he was there and 
then raised up and perfectly healed. For this token of the divine favor 
we will praise the God of Israel. 

Tuesday, 21. — Was in the office about nine, writing 
orders. About noon, started with William Clayton for 
Shokoquon. Dined at Brother Russel's, and then resumed 
our journey to Libeus T. Coon's, sixteen miles, when I 
returned. 

Wonderful signs have been seen in the heavens during 
the week. 

A Sign in the Heavens. 

This night, about twelve o'clock, the pilot and officers of the steamer 
William Penn, on the Ohio river, between Aurora and the rising sun, 
Indiana, observed a great light in the sky, in the form of a serpent. It 
turned to a livid, bright red, deep and awful, and remained stationary 
among the stars for two or three minutes, and then in a gradual man- 
ner formed a distinct roman Gr: in about a minute and a half, it turned 
into a distinct 0, and afterwards changed to a plain D, when it turned 
into an oblong shape, and gradually disappeared.! 

Wednesday, 22. — Was spent in visiting my friends. 

Elder Edwin D. Woolley writes from Westfield, Mas- 
sachusetts, that he has baptized twenty and organized a 
branch in Little Eiver village. 

Elder James Burnham died in Eichmond, Massachu- 

* Elder Snow was in charge of this company of Saints, 

t This description is condensed from ar article in the Times and Seasons {Vol, 
IV, No. 10), quoted from a paper called the Daily Sun, but whether a New York 
or a local Illinois paper cannot be learned. 



310 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. (A. D. 1843 

setcs, aged 46. He had been on a mission to England and 
Wales about two years, and was then on a mission in the 
Eastern States, and, through excessive labor and expos- 
ure, brought on quick consumption. He left a wife and 
several children to lament his loss. 

Thursday, 23. — Spent the day in visiting my friends. 

At seven-and-a-half, a. m., the heavens exhibited a 
signs in the splendid appearance of circles, accompanied 
Heavens. ^y mock suns. For further particulars, see 
Times and Seasons, page 151. 

The sword has been seen for several nights past; also, 
on the opposite side of the horizon, a black streak about 
the size of the light one. While the one is as black as 
darkness, the other has considerably the appearance of 
the blaze of a comet; but it is not a comet, for it appears 
about seven o'clock, and disappears about nine. 

Friday, 24. — I took a ride to Camp Creek; met Brother 
Clayton; returned to Libeus T. Coon's, where we warmed 
for an hour, and then returned home. 

In the evening, two teams arrived from Lima, loaded 
with provisions; also one load from Augusta. 

The St. Louis Republican says: — 

"At Point-a-Pitre, Guadaloupe, one of the West India 
Islands, 2,000 persons ran together in the public square, 
when the earth opened and swallowed the whole mass." 

The papers report that General Napier, with 3,700 Eng- 
lish troops, gained a brilliant victory over the Belochee 
army of 22,000 men, on the 17th ult. 

Saturday, 25. — In the office at eight, a. m. ; heard a 
report from Hyrum Smith concerning thieves ; whereupon 
I issued the following 

PROCLAMATION. 

Jo the Citizens of Nauvoo: 

Whereas it appears, by the republication of the foregoing proceed- 
ings and declaration, that I have not altered my views on the subject of 
stealing: And 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 311 

Whereas it is reported that there now exists a band of desperadoes, 
bound by oaths of secrecy, under severe penalties in case any member 
of the combination divulges their plans of stealing and conveying prop- 
erties from station to station, up and down the Mississippi and other 
routes: And 

Whereas it is reported that the fear of the execution of the pains and 
penalties of their secret oath on their persons prevents some members 
of said secret association (who have, through falsehood and deceit, been 
drawn into their snares,) from divulging the same to the legally-con- 
stituted authorities of the land: 

Know ye, therefore, that I, Joseph Smith, mayor of the city of Nau- 
voo, will grant and insure protection against all personal mob violence 
to each and every citizen of this city who will freely and voluntarily 
come before me and truly make known the names of all such abomin- 
able characters as are engaged in said secret combination for stealing, 
or are accessory thereto, in any manner. And I would respectfully 
solicit the co operation of all ministers of justice in this and the neigh- 
boring states to ferret out a band of thievish outlaws from our midst. 

Given under my hand at Nauvoo City, this 25th day of March, A. D., 
1843. 

Joseph Smith. 

Mayor. of said City* 

Eeceived a letter from Grand Master A. Jonas, request- 
ing the loan of cannon, to celebrate the organization of 
the new county of Marquette, which I granted. 

Also received a letter from United States Senator 
Richard M. Young, with a bond for a quarter section of 
land. 

I baptized Mr. Mifflin, of Philadelphia. 

Issued a writ for the arrest of A. Fields, for disorderly 
conduct. He was brought in drunk about noon, and 
abused the court. I ordered him to be put in irons till he 
was sober. 

The High Council, with my brother Hyrum presiding, 
sat on an appeal of Benjamin Hoyt, from the decision of 
David Evans, bishop; which was, that Brother 

tt" .n. i , • , Case of Benj. 

Hoyt cease to call certain characters witches Hoyt Before 

or wizards, cease to work with the divining 1R 

rod. and cease burning a board or boards to heal those 



312 HISTORYOF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

whom he said were bewitched. On hearing the case, the 
council decided to confirm the decision of Bishop Evans. 

The St. Louis Gazette reports "an awful gale" within 
the last six weeks. 154 vessels were wrecked on the coast 
Destructive of England, and 190 lives lost; on the coast 
Tempests. f Ireland, 5 vessels and 134 lives; on the 

coast of Scotland, 17 vessels, 39 lives; and on the coast 
of France, 4 vessels and 100 lives: value of vessels and 
cargoes, roughly estimated, $4,125,000. 

The Thames Tunnel completed and opened for foot 
passengers, when 30,000 persons passed through the first 
day. 

Elder William Henshaw, who has encountered consider- 
able opposition since he commenced preaching in South 
Wales, organized the Pen-y-darran branch, 

Opposition to ' . ° __,,„ ^ , ' 

the work in and ordained William Rees Davis, priest, who 
commenced preaching in the Welsh language, 
which caused opposition to increase and a considerable 
number to receive the gospel. While he established that 
branch of the Church, Brother Henshaw supported him- 
self by work in the coal mines. 

Sunday, 26. — At home, the weather being too severe for 
meeting. 

Monday, 27. — I dictated the following letter to Sidney 
Eigdon : — 

Letter of Joseph Smith to Sidney Bigdon — Expressing Belief in Bigdon 1 s 
Complicity in Conspiracy, with John C. Bennett et al. 

Dear Sir: — It is with sensations of deep regret and poignant grief 
that I sit down to dictate a few lines to you this morning, to let you 
know what my feelings are in relation to youiself, as it is against my 
principles to act the part of a hypocrite or to dissemble in anywise 
whatever with any man. I have tried for a long time to smother my 
feelings and not let you know that I thought that you were secretly and 
underhandedly doing all you could to take the advantage of and injure 
me; but whether my feelings are right or wrong remains for eternity to 
reveal. 

I cannot any longer forbear throwing off the mask and letting you 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 313 

kuow of the secret wranglings of my heait, that you may not be de. 
•ceived in relation to them, and that you may be prepared, sir, to take 
whatever course you see proper in the premises. 

I am, sir, honest, when I say that I believe and am laboring under 
the fullest convictions that you are actually practicing deception and 
wickedness against me and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 
Saints; and that you are in connection with John C. Bennett and George 
W. Robinson in the whole of their abominable practices, in seeking to 
destroy me and this people; and that Jared Carter is as deep in the mud 
as you, sir, are in the mire, in your conspiracies; and that you are in 
the exercise of a traitorous spirit against our lives and interests, by 
combining with our enemies and the murderous Missourians. My feel- 
ings, sir, have been wrought upon to a very great extent, in relation to 
yourself, ever since soon after the first appearance of John C. Bennett 
in this place. There has been something dark and mysterious hovering 
over our business concerns, that are not only palpable but altogether 
unaccountable, in relation to the post office. And, sir, from the very 
first of the pretensions of John C. Bennett to secure to me the post 
office, (which, by-the-bye, I have never desired, if I could have justice 
done me in that department, without my occupancy,) I have known, sir, 
that it was a fraud practiced upon me, and of the secret plottings and 
connivings between him and yourself in relation to'the matter the whole 
time, as well as many other things which I have kept locked up in my 
own bosom. But I am constrained, at this time, to make known my 
feelings to you. 

I do not write this with the intention of insulting you, or of bearing 
down upon you, or with a desire to take any advantage of you, or with 
the intention of laying even one straw in your way detrimental to your 
character or influence, or to suffer anything whatever that has taken 
place, which is within my observation or that has come to my knowl- 
edge to go abroad, betraying any confidence that has ever been placed 
in me. But I do assure you, most sincerely, that what I have said I 
verily believe; and this is the reason why 1 have said it — that you may 
know the real convictions of my heart, not because I have any malice 
or hatred, neither would I injure one hair of your head; and I will as- 
sure you that these convictions are attended with the deepest sorrow. 

I wish to God it were not so, and that I could get rid of the achings 
of my heart on that subject; and I now notify you that unless some- 
thing should take place to restore my mind to its former confidence in 
you, by some acknowledgments on your part, or some explanations 
that shall do away my jealousies, I must, as a conscientious man, publish 
my withdrawal of my fellowship from you to the Church, through the 
medium of the limes and Seasons, and demand of the conference a hear- 



314 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

ing concerning your case; that, on conviction of justifiable grounds, 
they will demand your license. I could say much more, but let the 
above suffice for the present. 

Yours, in haste, 

Joseph Smith. 

I sent the above communication to Elder Rigdon by 
Dr. Willard Richards ; to which I received the following 
reply. 

Sidney Migdon to Joseph Smith — Denies Existence of Just Cause of the 
PropheVs Suspicions. 

President Joseph Smith. 

Dear Sir: — 1 received your letter by the hands of Dr. Richards a few 
minutes since, the contents of which are surprising to me, though I am 
glad that you have let me know your feelings, so as to give me a chance 
to reply to them. 

Why it is that you have the feelings which yoa seem to entertain, I 
know not; and what caused you to think that I had any connection with 
John C. Bennett at any time is not within my power to say. 

As to the post office, I never asked Bennett one word about it when 
I made application for it. If he ever wrote to the department at Wash- 
ington anything about it, it was and is without my knowledge; for 
surely I know of no such thing being done at any time; neither did I 
know, at the time I applied for the office, that you intended to apply for 
it; nor did I kno^ of it for some time afterwards. As far as the post 
office is concerned, these are the facts. I wrote myself to the depart- 
ment, offering myself as an applicant, and referred the department to 
several members of Congress to ascertain my character. This is all I 
ever did on the subject. I never wrote but one letter to the department 
on the subject; neither had I at the time any acquaintance of any 
amount with Bennett, nor for a very considerable time afterwards. He 
never was at our house but very little, and then always on business, 
and always in a hurry, diu his business, and went off immediately. I 
know not that Bennett ever knew that I had applied for the office; and 
I am quite satisfied he did not till some time after I had written to the 
department on the subject; and if he ever did anything about it, it was 
and is to this day without my having any knowledge of it. 

As to the difficulties here, I never at any time gave Bennett any 
countenance in relation to it, and he knows it as well as I do, and feels 
it keenly. He has threatened me, severely, that he could do with me 
as he pleased, and that if I did not cease to aid yon and quit trying to 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 315 

save "my Prophet," as be calls you, from the punishment of the law, 
he would turn against me; and while at St. Louis, on his way to Upper 
Missouri, he, in one of his speeches, made a violent attack on myself, 
all predicated on the fact that I would not aid him. Such are his feel- 
ings on the subject and his threatenings. 

As to Jared Carter, if there is anything in his mind unfavorably dis- 
posed to you, he has, as far as I know, kept it to himself; for he never 
said anything to me, nor in my hearing, from which I could draw even 
an inference of that kind. He was here yesterday, when you came, 
much dejected in spirit in relation to his temporal affairs, and com- 
menced telling of the great injuries he had received by his son-in-law, 
and the great losses he had sustained by him, and seemed greatly 
dejected on account of it; but he never mentioned any other subject. 

When I went to La Harpe on Friday, it was purely in relation to 
temporal matters, making arrangements for provisions for the ensuing 
season and to regulate some matters in relation to property only. While 
there, I heard the report of the new indictments; and Mr. Higbee told 
me, the day before I went out, that I was among the number of those 
who were to be demanded. In relation to this, I made such inquiry as 
I thought would enable me to determine the fact, but failed in the at- 
tempt. I confess I felt some considerable interest in determining this 
fact, and felt anxious to know if I could find out how it was. 

Now, on the broad scale, I can assert in truth, that with myself and 
any other person on this globe there never was nor is there now existing 
anything privately or publicly to injure your character in any respect 
whatever; neither has any person spoken to me on any such subject. 
All that has ever been said by me has been said to your face, all of 
which you know as well as I. 

As to your rights in the post office, you have just the same as any 
other man. In the new case which occurred yesterday, I have examined 
all the laws and rules in this office, and find but one section in relation 
to it, and that indii^ectly, but gives the postmaster no right to abate the 
postage, nor make any disposition of the letter or letters; but address 
the department, and they will give such instruction in the case as they 
may deem correct. I have written on the subject to the department. 

I can conclude by only saying that I had hoped that all former diffi- 
culties had ceased for ever. On my part they were never mentioned to 
any person, nor a subject of discourse at any time nor in any place. I 
was tired hearing of them, and was iu hopes that they slumbered for 
ever. While at La Harpe the subject was never once mentioned. The 
only thing was the inquiry I made myself to find out, as far as I could, 
whether the report made to me by Mr. Higbee was correct or no, and 
this in relation to myself only. If being entirely silent on the subject at 



316 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

all times and in all places is an error, then I am guilty. If evading the 
subject at all times, whenever introduced by others, be a crime, then I 
am guilty; for such is my uniform custom. 

If this letter is not satisfactory, let me know wherein; for it is peace 
I want. I have been interrupted a great many times since I began to 
write, by people calling at the office. 

Respectfully, 

Sidney Rigdon. 
P. S. — I do consider it a matter of just offense to me to hear about 
Bennett's assisting me to office. I shall have a lower opinion of myself 
than I now have when I think I need his assistance. 

S. R. 

Opened court to try Field for drunkenness and abusing 
his wife. I fined him $10 and costs, and required him to 
find bail of $50 to keep the peace for six months. 

A conference held at Hartland, Niagara county, New 
York. Three elders and one priest were ordained, and 
five added to the Church. 

It is estimated that the Chinese loss, in their recent war 
with England, was 15,000 men, 1,500 pieces of cannon, 
and a great portion of their navy. 

Tuesday, 28. — I removed my office from the smoke 
house (which I have been obliged to occupy for some 
months,) to the small upper room in the new brick store. 
lnsult Josiah Butterfield came to my house and in- 

Resented. suited me so outrageously that I kicked him 
out of the house, across the yard, and into the street. 

Elder Brigham Young visited George A. Smith, who 
was very sick. 

Wednesday, 29. — Sat with Orson Spencer on a case of 
debt, and gave judgment against Dr. Foster, the defend- 
ant. 

Thursday, 30. — In the office, in relation to a new bond 
presented to me by Dr. Brink, which I rejected as in- 
formal, and told Charles Ivins he might improve my share 
of the ferry one year, and cautioned him that if he did 
not consider Brink good for heavy damages, he would be 
foolish to be his bondsman. 



A.D. 1843J JEIISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. 317 

Brink afterwards took an appeal to the Municipal Court, 
to be tried on the 10th of April. 

Elder Hyde returned from Quincy, having delivered ten 
lectures and baptized three persons. 

At half-past one, p. m., I was called to sit as justice of 
the peace, with Alderman George W. Harris, on the case 
of Webb v. Rigby, for forcible entry and de- ml ^ , 

° J ' J The Prophet 

tainer. During the trial the court fined Esquire as a Justice of 

the Peace. 

0. C. Skinner twenty dollars for insulting a 
witness, and would have fined him ten dollars more for 
his contempt of court, but let him off on his submissive 
acknowledgments. The trial closed about one o'clock on 
Friday morning. 

Friday, 31. — At ten, a. m., I opened court for trial of 
Amos Lower, for assaulting John H. Burghard. After 
hearing testimony, fined Lower $10. 

Spent the afternoon at Mr. Lucian Woodworth's in 
company with Brother Hyrum, Heber C. Kimball, Orson 
Hyde, Wilford Woodruff, and Brother Chase, with our 
wives; had a good time, and feasted on a fat turkey. 



.518 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. LA.D. 1843 



CHAPTER XVII. 

EULOGY OF LORENZO D. BARNES — THE BEGINNING OF AUXILIARY 
ORGANIZATIONS IN THE CHURCH — IMPORTANT ITEMS OF 
DOCTRINE PROCLAIMED AT RAMUS — THE GENERAL CON- 
FERENCE OF APRIL 6th, 1843. 

Saturday, April 1, 1843. — Called at the office about ten 
a. in., for "the Law of the Lord;" and about noon I 
heard read "Truthiana" No. 3, from the Boston Bee. 
At two p. m., I started in company with Orson Hyde and 
William Clayton for Ramus. The roads were very muddy. 
We arrived about half-past six, p. m., and were very 
joyfully received by Brother Benjamin F. Johnson, where 
we slept for the night. 

Elders Brigham Young and John Taylor went to La 
Harpe. 

The Times and Seasons contains a well written editorial 
upon the signs of the times. (See vol. iv, page 153.) 

Minutes of a Conference at Augusta, Lee County, Iowa, April 1st, 1843. 

James Brown was appointed the presiding Elder of the Augusta 
branch, which numbered eighty-four members in good standing, 
including two high priests, eleven elders, four priests, two teachers and 
one deacon. Twelve persons united with the branch. Seven elders, 
two priests and one deacon were ordained. One of the elders was a 
Lamanite of the Delaware tribe. A resolution was unanimously passed 
to uphold the first presidency and follow their counsels, and to use their 
utmost endeavors to build the Nauvoo House as well as the Temple. A 
number of discourses were preached during the conference, and several 
persons requested baptism at the close. 

Elder P. P. Pratt writes: 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 319 

Letter of Elder Parley P. Pratt Eulogizing Lorenzo D, Barnes, the First 
Elder to Die ivhile on a Foreign Mission. 

Alton, April 1, 1842. 

Dear Brother: — Brother Lorenzo Snow arrived at St. Louis last 
Wednesday, from England with about two hundred and fifty emigrants. 
They are now lying on a boat bound forNauvoo as soon as the river opens 
They sailed from England some time in January, and bring a copy of 
the Millennial Star and some private letters, und^r date of January 1st, 
1813. From these we learn the painful fact that our dear brother and 
fellow-laborer, Elder Lorenzo D. Barnes is gone to be with Christ. 
He lingered some weeks with a fever, and at length died in the triumphs 
of faith. 

He died on the morning of tho 20th of December last, at Bradford, 
— the first messenger of this last dispensation, who, for Christ's sake 
and the Gospel's, has laid down his life in a foreign land. 

'In this dispensation of Providence, an entire people are called to 
mourn. Brother Barnes was everywhere known and universally 
beloved as a meek, humble, and zealous minister of the Gospel, who 
has labored extensively for many years with great success. Such was 
his wisdom and prudence, and such his modesty and kindness, that he 
won the friendship not only of the Saints, but of thousands of various 
sects, and of those who made no profession. In short, his was the 
favored portion which falls to the lot of but few men, even 
among the great and good. He was loved and esteemed by many and 
hated by few, in all the wide circle of his acquaintance. But in the 
midst of a useful career on earth, he is suddenly and to us unexpectedly 
called away to a higher and more glorious field of action, with the 
spirits of the just, in the high council of the King of Kings. His spirit 
now justly claims an honored seat; his voice is now heard in the 
deliberations of the high and mighty ones, who are the principal movers 
in the great events of: the dispensation of the fullness of times, whilst 
his body lies sleeping far away from his native shore, on a distant 
island of the sea. 



No father or mother, or kindred were near 
To receive his last blessing or drop a kind tear, 
With heart-broken anguish to weep o'er his tomb. 
To adorn it with roses of richest perfume. 

Yet he was lamented with many a tear, 
By hearts full of sorrow— by soul's as sincere, 
Who in solemn procession repaired to the grave, 
To mourn for the stranger no kindness could save. 



320 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. 1843 

'Twas a tribute from souls he had won for his Lord — 
Yea, brothers and sisters made nigh by his word, 
Whose love was as strong and whose friendship as pure— 
Whose grief was as heart-felt as heart can endure. 

His name and memory will be dear to thousands, and will be banded 
down to all generations, as one who has devoted his time from early 
youth in the service of his God and of his fellow-creatures, and has laid 
down his life for Christ's sake and the Gospel's, to find it again, even 
life eternal.* 

The Saints in England seem to be still rejoicing in the truth and 
increasing in numbers. 

The emigration to Nauvoo is gathering as a cloud, yea, they are 
flocking as doves to their windows from all parts of England and the 
United States. The ice remaining so late in the river has congregated 
them in St. Louis in great numbers, some from Ohio and the East, and 
from various places. I think that thousands will land in Nauvoo in the 
course of the spring. Yes, as soon as the ice is out, they will throng to 
Nauvoo in swarms. The people in Missouri are beginning to be more 
and more astonished, and are expressing great fears that "Joe Smith n 
will yet prevail, so as to restore the supremacy of the laws in that dark 
corner of the earth, where a gang of robbers and murderers have so 
Jong controlled a state. 

I long to be with you on the 6th of April, but fear that the ice will 
prevent. 

I am in haste, 

Yours in the new covenant, 

Parley P. Pratt. 

A Short Sketch oj the Rise of the "Young Gentlemen and Ladies RelieJ 
Society" from in the Times and Seasons. If 

In the latter part of January, 1813, a number of young people 
assembled at the house of Elder Heber C. Kimball, who warned them 

* Lorenzo D.Barnes, the subject of the above eulogy, was born in 1812, and 
ordained a member of the second quorum of Seventy at Kirtland, in 1835. When 
the Adam-ondi-Ahman stake of Zion was organized in June, 1838, he was made a 
member of the High Council, and also the secretary of that stake, though continuing 
^o hold the office of Seventy. He was one of the Seventy appointed to accompany 
the Twelve on their mission to Europe. (See minutes of the general conference of 
the Church, held in Quincy, Illinois, May 4, 5, G,'1839. History of the Church, 
vol. iii, pp. 24G-7.) He died December 20, 1842, at Bradford, England. In 1852 
his body was brought from England and interred in the Salt Lake City cemetery, 
where a suitably inscribed monument erected by the second quorum of Seventy 
Salt Lake City, marks his resting place, 

tVol.iv, p. 154-7. A reading of the above minutes will more clearly describe a Mutua 
Improvement Association than a Relief Society; and this incident may not 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. !>21 

against the various temptations to which youth is exposed, and gave an 
appointment expressly for the young at the house of Elder Billings; and 
another meeting was held in the ensuing week, at Brother Fair's 
school-room, which was filled to overflowing. Elder Kimball delivered 
addresses, exhorting the young people to study the scriptures, and 
enable themselves to "give a reason for the hope within them," 
and to be ready to go on to the stage of action, when their present 
instructors and leaders had gone behiud the scenes; also to keep good 
company and to keep pure and unspotted from the world. 

The next meeting was appointed to be held at my house; and 
notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, it was completely filled 
at an early hour. Elder Kimball, as usual, delivered an address, warning 
his hearers against giving heed to their youthful passions, and 
exhorting them to be obedient and to pay strict attention to the advice 
of their parents, who were better calculated to guide them on the 
pathway of youth than they themselves. My house being too small the 
next meeting was appointed to be held in the hall over my store. I 
addressed the young people for some time, expressing my gratitude to 
Elder Kimball for having commenced this glorious work, which would 
be the means of doing a great deal of good, and said the gratitude of all 
good men and of the youth would follow him through life, and he 
would always look back upon the winter of 1843 with pleasure. I 
experienced more embarrassment in standing before them than I should 
before kings and nobles of the earth; for I knew the crimes of which 
the latter were guilty, and I knew precisely how to address them; but 
my young friends were guilty of none of them, and therefore I hardly 
kuew what to say. I advised them to organize themselves into a society 
for the relief of the poor, and recommended to them a poor lame 
English brother (Maudesley) who wanted a house built, that he might 
have a home amongst the Saints; that he had gathered a few materials 
for the purpose, but was unable to use them, and he has petitioned for 
aid. I advised them to choose a committee to collect funds for tnis 
purpose, and perform this charitable act as soon as the weather 
permitted. I gave them such advice as I deemed was calculated to 
guide their conduct through life and prepare them for a glorious 
eternity. 

A meeting was appointed to carry out these suggestions, at which 
William Cutler was chosen president and Marcellus L. Bates, clerk. 
Andrew Cahoon, Claudius V, Spencer and Stephen Perry were 
appointed to draft a constitution for the society and the meeting 
adjourned to the 28th of March, when the said committee submitted a 

improperly be regarded as the first step towards that great movement in the Church 
which has heen such a mighty aid in holding to the faith of their fathers the youth 
of Israel. 

21 Vol. V 



322 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1843 

dral^ of a constitution, consisting of twelve sections. The report was 
unanimously adopted, and the meeting proceeded to choose their 
officers, William Walker was chosen president; William Cutler, 
vice-president: Lorin Walker, treasurer; James M. Monroe, secretary. 
Stephen Perry, Marcellus L. Bates, Redden A. Allred, William H. 
Kimball and Garret Ivans were appointed a committee of vigilance. 
The meeting then adjourned until the next Tuesday evening. 

The next meeting was addressed by Elders Brigham Young, Heber 
C. Kimball and Jedediah M. Grant, whose instructions were listened to 
with breathless attention. 

The Boston Weekly Bee has the following: 

MOKMONISM, 

Sir: — On Thursday evening, March 23, agreeable to appointment, 
Elder George J. Adams addressed a large concourse of people on the 
Character and Mission of Joseph Smith the Prophet. In speaking of 
him, he bears a positive and direct testimony to the divinity 
of his mission. He does this without hesitation, just as if he 
meant what he said, and said what he meant. He does not say he hopes 
Joseph Smith is a true prophet, but says he is positive that such is 
the fact. On the Sabbath, March 26th, during the day, he introduced 
Elder E. P. Maginn, and gave him a high recommendation as an able 
minister of the fullness of the Gosptl, who is to take his place in Boston 
for the present. He also spoke of Elder Orson Hyde, one of the Twelve 
Apostles, that would probably visit them this spring; and, according to 
Adams' account of him, he must be a perfect Apollo in learning and 
eloquence. The Boylston hall was a perfect jam during the day and 
evening. On Tuesday evening he gave his farewell lecture. That was 
a rich treat indeed, embodying the outline of the faith and doctrine of 
Latter-day Saints. But on Wednesday evening, at the great tea party, 
was the time it was clearly manifested that kindest feelings existed in 
this city towards the Mormons. There were present on that occasion 
over five hundred people: three hundred and fifty sat down at the first 
table. After supper, Elder Adams delivered a very appropriate and 
eloquent address. It was listened to with profound attention, during 
which time we saw the tear start in many an eye. During his remarks 
he spoke very beautifully of "the marriage supper of the Lamb," that 
was to wind up this last dispensation, cause creation to cease to groan, 
and usher iu the long-looked-for period when universal religion, liberty 
and toleration shall be proclaimed from "mountain- top to mountain- top 
and every man in everyplace shall meet a brother and a friend." 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 32(1 

Yours truly, (not a Mormon, but) one of the many friends to that 
much abused people." 

D. W. R. 
Boston, April 1, 1843. 

Sunday, 2. — Wind N. E. Snow fell several inches, but 
melted more or less. 

At ten a. m. went to meetiDg. Heard Elder Orson 
Hyde preach, comparing the sectarian preachers to crows 
living on carrion, as they were more fond of ^ „ , 

& ' J Orson Hyde 

lies about the Saints than the truth. Alluding Corrected by 
to the coming of the Savior, he said, 
"When He shall appear, we shall be like Him, 
&c. He will appear on a white horse as a warrior, and 
maybe we shall have some of the same spirit. Our God 
is a warrior, (John xiv, 23.) It is our privilege to have 
the Father and Son dwelling in our hearts, &c." 

We dined with my sister Sophronia McCleary, when I 
told Elder Hyde that I was going to offer some corrections 
to his sermon this morning. He replied, "They shall be 
thankfully received." 

Important Items oj Instruction given by Joseph the Prophet at Bamus, 
Illinois, April 2nd, 1843 * 

\^hen the Savior shall appear, we shall see Him as He is. We shall 
see that He is a man like ourselves, and that the same sociality which 
exists among us here will exist among us there, only it will be coupled 
with eternal glory, which glory we do not now enjoy. (John xiv: 23.) 
~The appearing of the Father and the Son, in that verse, is a personal 
appearance; and the idea that the Father and the Son dwell in a man's 
heart is an old sectarian notion, and is false. 

In answer to the question, "Is not the reckoning of God's time, 
angel's time, prophet's time, and man's time according to the planet on 
which they reside? I answer, yes. But there are no angels who 
minister to this earth but those who do belong or have belonged to it. 
The angels do not reside on a planet like this earth; but they reside in 
the presence of God, on a globe like a sea of glass and fire, where all 
things for their glory are manifest — past, present, and future, and are 
continually before the Lord. The place where God resides is a great 

See Doctrine and Covenants, section cxxx. 



324 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D 1843 

Urim and Thnmmim. This earth in its sanctified and immortal state, 
will be made like unto crystal and will be a Urim and Thummim to the 
inhabitants who dwell thereon, whereby all things pertaining to an 
inferior kingdom, or all kingdoms of a lower order, will be manifest to 
those who dwell on it; and this earth will be Christ's. Then the white 
stone mentioned in Revelation ii: 17, will become a Urim and 
Thummim to each individual who receives one, whereby thing* 
pertaining to a higher order of kingdoms, will be made known; and a 
white stone is given to each of those who come into the celestial 
kingdom, whereon is a new name written, which no man knoweth save 
he that receiveth it. The new name is the key word. 

I prophesy, in the name of the Lord God, that the commencement of 
the difficulties which will cause much bloodshed previous to the coming 
of the Son of Man will be in South Carolina. It may probably arise 
through the slave question. This a voice declared to me while I was 
prayine: earnestly on the subject, December 25th, 1832.* 

I was once praying very earnestly to know the time of the coming of 
the Son of Man, when I heard a voice repeat the following: "Joseph, 
my son, if thou livest until thou art eighty five years old, thou shalt 
see the face of the Son of Man; therefore let this suffice, and trouble 
me no more on this matter." I was left thus, without being able to 
decide whether this coming referred to the beginning of the millennium 
or to some previous appearing, or whether I should die and thus see 
His face. I believe the coming of the Son of Man will not be any 
sooner than that time. 

At one p. m., attended meeting, I read the 5th chapter 
of Revelation, referring j particularly to the 

The Prophet ' , i 

Expounds the 6th verse, showing irom that the actual 
existence of beasts in heaven. Probably those 
were beasts which had lived on another planet, and not 
ours. God never made use of the figure of a beast to 
represent the kingdom of heaven. When it is made use 
of, it is to represent an apostate church. This is the first 
time I have ever taken a text in Revelation; and if the 
young Elders would let such things alone it would be far 
better. 

Then corrected Elder Hyde's rem irks, the same as I 
had done to him privately. 

* See Doctrine and Covenants, section lxxxvii. Also History of the Chuk*'h 
vol. I, chapter xxii, where the revelation here alluded to is griven in extenso. 



A. L>. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 325 

At the close of the meeting we expected to start for 
Carthage, but the bad weather prevented; so I called 
another meeting in the evening. 

Between meetings I read in Revelation with Elder 
Hyde, and expounded the same, during which time 
several persons came in and expressed their fears that I 
had come in contact with the old scriptures. 

At seven o'clock meeting, I resumed the subject of the 
beast, and showed very plainly that John's vision was 
very different from Daniel's prophecy — one referring to 
things actually existing in heaven ; the other being a figure 
of things which are on earth. 

The Persistence oj Intelligence — Blessings Predicated on Laio* 

Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will 
rise with us in the resurrection; and if a person gains more knowledge 
and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than 
another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come. 
There is a law irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of 
this world, upon which all blessings are predicated; and when we 
obtain jany blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which 
it is predicated. 

.The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man s; the 
Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is 
a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell 
in us. A man may receive the Holy Ghost, and it may descend upon 
him and not tarry with him. 

"What is the meaning of the scripture, 'He that is 
faithful over a few things shall be made 

tf , , . p . Questions 

ruler over many; and he that is faithful submitted to 

, „ ! t , the Prophet. 

over many, shall be made ruler over many 
more'? What is the meaning of the parable of the Ten 
Talents? Also the conversation with Nicodemus, 'Except 
a man be born of water and of the Spirit'? " were questions 
put to me which I shall not answer at present. 

I closed by flagellating the audience for their fears, 
and called upon Elder Hyde to get up and fulfill his 

* See Doctrine and Covenants, section cxxx. 



326 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

covenant to preach three-quarters of an hour, otherwise I 
would give him a good whipping. 

Elder Hyde arose and said "Brothers and sisters, I 
feel as though all had been said that can be said. I can 
say nothing, but bless you." 

At the close of the meeting, we returned to Benjamin F. 
Johnson's, where we slept; and I remarked chat the 
hundred and forty-four thousand sealed are the priests 
who should be anointed to administer in the daily sacrifice. 

Dimick B. Huntington returned from Chicago, having 
had a very cold and severe journey. The ice in Chicago 
harbor was three feet thick. Brought me a letter from 
Mr. Justin Butterfield. 

Monday, April 3. — Miller's day of judgment has 
arrived, but it is too pleasant for false prophets.* 

At two p. m., started for Carthage, where we arrived 
about four p. in., and stayed at Jacob B. Backenstos'. 

Elders Young and Taylor returned to Nauvoo, having 
preached four times. 

In the evening, reading the Book of Revelation with 
Elder Hyde and conversing with Esquire Backman. 

Upward of $12,000,000 have been recently expended by 
the French government to fortify the city of Paris. 

Tuesday, 4. — Spent five hours preaching to Esquire 
Backman, Chancery Robinson, and Backenstos. Back- 
man said, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." 

We left Carthage about two p. m., and arrived at 
Nauvoo, at have- past five. 

Wednesday, 5. — Sat with Aldermen Spencer, Wells, 
Hills, Harris, Whitney and Kimball, associate- justices in 
the municipal court on a writ of habeas corpus, and 
discharged Jonathan and Lewis Hoopes from custody. 

A branch of the Church organized at Mount Holly, New 
Jersey, of twenty-five members, by Elder Newton. 

* This has reference to W T illiam Miller, who predicted that on the 3rd of April, 
1843, the Christ would come in glory, and the end of the world would come. See 
footnote, pa^e 272, this volume. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 327 

Thursday, April 6*. — I was detained from conference to 
hear a case of assumpsit, Widow Thompson, versus 
Dixon, until eleven a. m. 

The first day of the fourteenth year of the Church of 
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Sun shone clear, 
warm and pleasant. The snow has nearly all disappeared, 
except a little on the north side of the hill above Zarahemla, 
Iowa. The ice is about two feet thick on the Mississippi, 
west of the Temple. A considerable number of the 
brethren crossed from the Iowa side of the river to the 
conference, on the ice. The walls of the Temple are from 
four to twelve feet above the floor. 

Minutes oj the General Conference, Beginning April 6th, 1843, 

An annual conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 
Saints was convened on the floor of the Temple. There were present — 
Hyrum Smith, Patriarch; Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson 
Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, George A. Smith, and Willard 
Richards, of the quorum of the Twelve; Elder Amasa Lyman, and a 
very large assembly of the elders and Saints. 

Elder Brigham Young announced that President Joseph Smith was 
detained on business, but would be present soon. 

Sang a hymn. 

Elder Amasa Lyman opened by prayer, and another hymn was sung. 

Elder Orson Pratt then read the third chapter of the second epistle of 
Peter, and spoke upon the subject of the resurrection. 

At ten minutes before twelve o'clock, President Joseph Smith and 
Elders Rigdon and Hyde arrived. 

PRESENTATION OF AUTHORITIES, 

At twelve o'clock, President Joseph Smith commenced by saying, 
4 'We all ought to be thankful for the privilege we enjoy this day of 
meeting so many of the Saints, and for the warmth and brightness of 
the heavens over our heads; and it truly makes the countenances of 
this great multitude to look cheerful and gladdens the hearts of all 
present." He next stated the object of the meeting, which was — 

First. To ascertain the standing of the First Presidency, which he 
should do by presenting himself before the conference. 

Second. To take into consideration the expediency of sending out the 



o28 HISTOKY O*' IHK CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Twelve, or some of them, amongst the branches of the Church, to ob- 
tain stock to build the Nauvoo house; for the time has come to build it. 
Third. The elders will have the privilege of appeals from the different 
conferences to this, if any such cases exist. 

These are the principal items of business which I have at present to 
lay before you. 

It is necessary that this conference give importance to the Nauvoo 
House. A prejudice exists against building it, in favor of the Temple: 
and the conference is required to give stress to the building of the Nau- 
voo House. This is the most important matter for the time being; for 
there is no place in this city where men of wealth, character and influ- 
ence from abroad can go to repose themselves, and it is necessary we 
should have such a place. The Church must build it or abide the result 
of not fulfilling the commandment. 

President Joseph then asked the conference if they were satisfied 
with the First Presidency, so far as he was concerned as an individual 
to preside over the whole Church, or would they have another? If, said 
he, I have done anything to injure my. character, reputation, or stand- 
ing, or have dishonored our religion by any means in the sight of angels 
or in the sight of men and women, I am sorry for it; and if you will 
forgive me, I will endeavor to do so no more. I do not know that I 
have done anything of the kind. But if I have, come forward and tell 
me of it. If any one has any objection to me, I want you to come boldly 
and frankly and tell me of it; and if not, ever after hold your peace. 

Motion was made and seconded, that President Joseph Smith con- 
tinue President of the whole Church. After a few minutes' silence, the 
motion was put by President Brigham Young, when one vast sea of 
hands was presented, and the motion was carried unanimously. 

President Joseph returned his thanks to the assembly for the mani- 
festation of their confidence, and said he would serve them according 
to the best ability God should give him. 

Elder Brigham Young moved, and Elder Orson Hyde seconded, that 
Elder Sidney Kigdon be continued in his office as counselor to President 
Smith. 

Elder Rigdon spoke, saying, "The last time I had the privilege of at- 
tending conference was at the laying of the corner stones of this Temple; 
and I have had but poor health since, and have been connected with cir- 
cumstances the most forbidding, which, doubtless, have produced some 
feelings. I have never had a doubt of the work. My feelings concern- 
ing Bennett were always the same. I told my family to guard against 
that fellow, for some time he will attempt to make a rupture among 
this people. I had so little confidence in him that I always felt myself 
at his defiance. I was once threatened by Warren Parrish, if I would 



A.D. 1843] HISTOEY OF THE CHUECH. 329 

not coincide with bis views; and I have just received such a threatening 
letter from John C. Bennett, that if I did not turn my course I should 
feel the force of his power. As there is now an increase of my health 
and strength, I desire to serve you in any way it is possible for me to 
do. If any one has any feelings against me, I hope they will express 
them. 

Dimick B. Huntington asked him what he meant when he said Ben- 
nett was a good man, etc., when he called him a perfect gentleman and 
he had nothing against him. 

Elder Rigdon said he did not recollect it. He did not then know as 
much about Bennett as he had learned afterwards. I say now, he never 
offered any abuse in my house. Bennett has never been about my 
house but little. I never saw auything about the man but what was re- 
spectable. He came to Robinson's. I was in debt to him, and conse- 
quently boarded him. I think Dimick must be mistaken. 

Dimick: I know I am not. I have no private pique against Elder 
Rigdon. 

The vote was then put and carried almost unanimously. 

President Joseph Smith presented William Law as his second coun- 
selor, who was sustained by unanimous vote. 

President Hyrum Smith, patriarch, said he wished to be tried, when 
it was voted unanimously that he retain his office of patriarch. He then 
blessed the people and asked the Lord to bless them also. 

REMARKS OF THE PROPHET ON COLLECTING FUNDS. 

President Joseph Smith said he 'did not know anything against the 
Twelve. If he did, he would present them for trial. It is not right that all 
the burden of the Nauvoo House should rest on a few individuals; and we 
will now consider the propriety of sending the Twelve to collect means 
for it. There has been too great a solicitude in individuals for the build- 
of the Temple to the exclusion of the Nauvoo House. Agents have had 
too great latitude to practice fraud by receiving donations, and never 
making report. The Church has suffered loss, and I am opposed to that 
system of collecting funds when any elder may receive moneys. I am 
opposed to any man handling the public funds of the Church who is not 
duly authorized. I advise that some means be devised for transacting 
business on a sure foundation. The Twelve are the most suitable per- 
sons to perform this business, and I want the conference to devise some 
means to bind them as firm as the pillars of heaven, if possible. The 
Twelve were always honest, and it will do them no hurt tojbind them. 
It has been reported that they receive wages at two dollars per day for 
their services. I have never heard this till recently, and I do not believe 
it. I know the Twelve have never had any wages at all. They have 



330 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. f A.D. 184* 

fulfilled their duties; they have always gone where they were sent, and 
have labored with their hands for their support when at home. If we 
send them into the world to collect funds, we want them to return those 
funds to this place, that they may be appropriated to the very purpose 
for which they were designed. I go in for binding up the Twelve solid, 
putting them under bonds; and let this conference institute an order to 
this end, and that the traveling expenses of the agents sh^ll not be 
borne out of the funds collected for building these houses; and let no man 
pay money or stock into the hands of the Twelve, except he transmit an 
account of the same immediately to the Trustee- in-Trust; and let no 
man but the Twelve have authority to act as agent for the Temple and 
Nauvoo House. I would suggest the propriety of your saying that no 
money should ever be sent by any man, except it be by some one whom 
you have appointed as agent, and stop every other man from receiving 
moneys. It has been customary for any elder to receive moneys for the 
Temple when he is traveling. But this system of things opened a wide 
field for every kind of imposition, as any man can assume the name of 
a " Mormon" elder and gather his pockets full of money and go to 
Texas. Many complaints have come to me of money being sent that I 
have never received. I will mention one case. He is a good man: his 
name is Daniel Russell, from Akron, New York. His brother Samuel 
had been east on business for him, and there received twenty or twenty- 
five dollars as a donation to the Temple, which he put in Daniel Rus- 
sell's bag, with his money, and forgot to take it out before he returned 
the bag. Two or three days after his return, he called on his brother 
for the money belonging to the Church; but Daniel thought Samuel had 
paid out too much of his money, and he would keep the Church's money 
to make good his own. I called to see Daniel Russell about the money, 
and he treated me so very politely, but did not give me to understand 
he ever meant to pay it. He said he did not know at the time that there 
was any Church money in the bag, — that he had paid it out, and he had 
none now. 

Samuel Russell, who brought the money from the east, stated to the 
conference that he did not think it was because his brother was short 
of funds that he kept it, for he had money enough. He had told him 
that he should not be out of fuuds again — that his brother had twenty 
dollars of the Church funds and some dried fruit for the President. 

President Joseph resumed: I give this as a sample of a thousand in- 
stances. We cannot give an account to satisfy the people on the Church 
books unless something is done. I propose that you send your moneys 
for the Temple by the Twelve or some agent of your own choosing; and 
if you send by others and the money is lost, it is lost to yourselves; \ 
cannot be responsible for it. Everything that falls into my hands shall 



A.D. 1843) HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 331 

be appropriated to the very thing it was designed for. It is wrong for 
the Church .to make a bridge of my nose in appropriating funds for the 
Temple. The act of incorporation required of me securities, which were 
lodged in the proper hands, as the law directs; and I am responsible for 
all that comes into my hands. The Temple committee are bound to 
me in the sum of $2,000, with good security. If they apply any prop- 
erty where they ought not, they are liable to me for it. Individuals are 
running to them with funds every day, and thus make a bridge over 
my nose. I am not responsible for it. If you put it into the hands of 
the Temple committee, neither I nor my clerk know anything of it. So 
long as you consider me worthy to hold this office, [Sole Trustee-in- 
Trust for the Church] it is your duty to attend to the legal forms be- 
longing to the business; and if not, put some other one in my place. 
My desire is that the conference minutes may go forth in such form 
that those abroad may learn the order of doing business, and that the 
Twelve be appointed to this special mission of collecting funds for the 
Nauvoo House, so that all may know how to send their funds safely, or 
bring them themselves and deliver them to the Trustee-in-Trust or his 
clerk, who can always be found in the office. Who are the Temple com- 
mittee, that they should receive the funds'? They are nobody. When 
I went to the White House at Washington, and presented letters of in- 
troduction from Thomas Carlin, governor of Illinois, to Martin Van 
Buren, he looked at them very contemptuously, and said, "Governor 
Carlin! Governor Carlin! Who's Governor Carlin? Governor Carlin's 
nobody." I erred in spirit: I have been sorry for it ever since. I 
confess my mistake; aud I here make my apology to all the world; and 
let it be recorded on earth and in heaven that I am clear of the sin of 
being angry with Martin Van Buren for saying, "Governor Carlin's 
nobody." All property ought to go through the hands of the Trustee- 
in-Trust. There have been complaints against the Temple committee 
for appropriating. Church funds more freely for the benefit of their own 
children than to others who need assistance more than they do; and the 
parties may have till Saturday to prepare for trial. 

It was then voted unanimously that the Twelve be appointed a com- 
mittee to collect funds to build the Nauvoo House and receive moneys 
for the Temple, with this proviso — That the. Twelve give bonds for the 
safe delivery of all funds coming into their hands belonging to the Nau- 
voo House and Temple to the Trustee-in-Trust; and that the payer also 
make immediate report to the Trustee-in-Trust of all moneys paid by 
him to the Twelve; and that the instructions of President Joseph Smith 
to the conference be carried into execution. 

Elder W. W. Phelps proposed that the Twelve sign triplicate receipts 
for moneys received, for the benefit of the parties concerned. 



332 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Elder Brigham Young objected, and said he should never give re- 
ceipts for cash, except such as he put into his own pocket for bis own use; 
for it was calculated to make trouble hereafter, and there were better 
methods of transacting the business and more safe for the parties con- 
cerned; that he wished this speculation to stop, and would do all in his 
power to put it down: to which the Twelve responded, Amen. Elder 
Young asked if any one knew anything against any one of the Twelve 
— any dishonesty. If they did, he wanted it exposed. He said he knew 
of one who was not dishonest. He also referred to muzzling the ox 
that treadeth out the corn, etc. 

President Joseph said, I will answer Brother Brigham. There is no 
necessity for the Twelve being abroad all the time preaching and 
gathering funds for the Temple. Spend the time that belongs to preach- 
ing abroad, and the rest of the time at home to support themselves. It 
is no more for the Twelve to go abroad and earn their living in this 
way than it is for others. The idea of not muzzling the ox is a good old 
Quaker song; but we will make the ox tread out the corn first, and then 
feed him. I am bold to declare that I have never taken the first farth- 
ing of Church funds for my own use, till I have first consulted the proper 
authorities. When there was no quorum of the Twelve or High Priests 
for me to consult, I have asked the Temple committee, who had no par- 
ticular business with it; but I did it for the sake of peac. (Elder Cutler 
said it was so.) Let the conference stop all agents from collecting 
funds, except the Twelve. When a man is sent to preach the first prin- 
ciples of the gospel, he should preach that, and let the rest alone. 

Choir sang a hymn. 

Elder Orson Hyde prayed; and twelve minutes before two o'clock, 
p. in., conference adjourned for one hour. 

Ajternoon Session. 
[Conference re-assembled at three o'clock, p. m.] 

HYRUM SMITH'S REMARKS ON THIEVES. 

Patriarch Hyrum Smith commenced by saying that he had some com- 
munication to make to the conference on stealing, and he would do it 
while waiting for President Joseph Smith, and referred to the article in 
the last number of the Was}). Said he, I have had an interview with a 
man who formerly belonged to the Church. He revealed to me that 
there is a band of men, and some who pretend to be strong in the faith 
of the doctrine of the Latter-day Saints; but they are hypocrites, and 
some who do not belong to the Church, who are bound together by 
secret oaths, obligations, and penalties to keep the secret; and they 
hold that it is right to steal from any one who does not belong to the 



AD. 1843 J HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 606 

Church, provided they consecrate one-third of it to the building of the 
Temple. They are also making bogus money. 

This man says he has become convinced of the error of his ways and 
has come away from them to escape their fury. I wish to warn you all 
not to be duped by such men, [these outlaws] for- they are the Gadian- 
tons of the last days. 

He then read from the Wasp, as republished from the limes and 
Seasons, his own affidavit and the proceedings of the authorities of the 
Church generally, dated Nov. 26, 1841. The man who told me said, 
"this secret band refer to the Bible, Book of Doctrine and Covenants, 
and Book of Mormon to substantiate their doctrines; and if any of them 
did not remain steadfast, they ripped open their bowels and gave them 
to the cat-fish. M But no such doctrines are taught in those books 

They say that it has been taught from this stand that they are the 
little foxes that spoil the vines, and the First Presidency are the big 
foxes; aud the big foxes wanted the little foxes to get out of the city 
and spread abroad, so that the big foxes might have a chance; which 
everybody knows is false. All these things are used to decoy the foolish 
and uuwary. 

I will mention two names— David Holman and James Dunn. They 
were living in my house. I went to them and asked them if they were 
stealing for a livelihood? Holman confessed that he had stolen from 
the world, not from the brethren. I told them to get out of my house. 
David asked me to forgive him, and he lifted his hands towards heaven 
and swore, if I would forgive him, he would never do so again. Soon 
after he went to Montrose, where he was found stealing salt. He then 
stole a skiff and came across the river, stole a barrel of flour that had 
just been landed from a steamer, rowed down the river to Keokuk and 
sold the flour tor $2.00, saying he had picked it up in the river, and it 
was likely a little damaged, got his pay, and went his way. Dunn would 
not promise to quit stealing, but said he would go to St. Louis. I tell 
you today, the men that steal shall not long after be brought to the 
penitentiary. They will soon be brought to condign punishment. I 
demand, in the presence of God, that you will exert your wit and your 
power to bring such characters to justice. If you do not, the curse of 
God will rest upon you. Such things would ruin any people. Should 
I catch a Latter-day Saint stealing, he is the last man to whom I would 
show mercy. 

President Joseph Smith said, I think it best to continue this subject. 
I want the elders to make honorable proclamation abroad concerning 
what the feelings of the First Presidency are; for stealing has never 
been tolerated by them. I despise a thief. He would betray me if he 
could get the opportunity. I know that he would be a detriment to any 



o34 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

cause; and if I were the biggest rogue in the world, he would steal my 
horse when I wanted to run away. 

It has been said that some were afraid to disclose what they knew of 
these secret combinations; consequently I issued a proclamation, which 
you may read in the Wasp, Number 48. If any man is afraid to disclose 
what he knows about this gang of thieves, let him come to me and tell 
me the truth, and I will protect him from violence. Thieving must be 
stopped. 

Opportunity was then offered to the elders to bring forward their ap- 
peals from other conferences; but no case was presented. 

THE PROPHET'S REMARKS ON CONDITIONS IN IOWA. 

President Joseph Smith continued his remarks and said, it is neces- 
sary that I make a proclamation concerning Keokuk and also in relation 
to the economy of the Church on that side of the river. 

The governor of Iowa has issued a writ in the same manner that Car- 
lin did, and it is now held in Iowa as a cudgel over my head. I was 
told by the United States attorney that the governor of Iowa had no 
jurisdiction after the decision of the Supreme Court, and that all writs 
thus issued were legally dead. Appeals have been made to Governor 
Chambers; but although he has no plausible excuse, he is not willing 
to kill that writ or to take it back. I will therefore advise you to serve 
them a trick that the devil never did, — i. e., come away and leave them; 
come into Illinois, pay taxes in Illinois, and let the Iowegians take their 
own course. I don't care whether you como away or not. I do not 
wish to control you; but if you wish for my advice, I would say, let 
every man, as soon as he conveniently can, come over here; for you 
can live in peace with us. We are all green mountain boys — Southern- 
ers, Northerners, Westerners, and every other kind of "ers," and wil 
treat you well: and let that governor know that we don't like to be im- 
posed upon, 

In relation to Keokuk, it has been supposed that I made a great bar- 
gain with a certain great man there. In the beginning of August last, 
a stranger ca«ie to my house, put on a very long face, and stated that 
he was in great distress — that he was a stranger in this city, and having 
understood that I was benevolent, he had come to me for help. He said 
that he was about to lose $1,400 of property at sheriff's sale for $300 in 
cash; that he had money in St. Louis, which he expected in two or three 
days; that the sale would take place the next day; and that he wanted 
to hire some money for two or three days. I thought on the subject over 
uight, and he came the next morning for an answer. I did not like the 
looks of the man; but thought I, he is a stranger. I then reflected upon 
the situation that I had been frequently placed in, and that I had often 



A.D. 1843 j HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. 335 

been a stranger in a strange land, and whenever I had asked for assist- 
ance I had obtained it; and it may be that he is an honest man; and if I 
turn him away, I shall be guilty of the sin of ingratitude. I therefore 
concluded to loan him $200 in good faith sooner than be guilty of in- 
gratitude. He gave me his note for the same, and said, "whenever you 
call on me, you shall have the money." Soon after, when I was taken 
with Carlin's writ, I asked him for the money; but he answered, "I 
have not got it from St. Louis, but shall have it in a few days." He 
then said, "since I saw you, a project has entered my mind, which I 
think mav be profitable both for you and me. I will give you a quit 
claim deed for all the land you bought of Galland, which is twenty 
thousand acres. You paid Galland the notes, and ought to have them: 
they are in my hands as his agent, and I will give them up. I also pro- 
pose deeding to you one-half of my right to all my land in the Iowa 
territory; and all I ask is for you to give your influence to help to build 
up Keokuk." I answered, "I have not asked for your property: I don't 
want it, and would not give a snap of my finger for it; but I will re- 
ceive the papers; and if I find it as you say, I will use my influence to 
help to buildup the place; but I won't give you anything for the land," 
and told him I wanted the $200 which was due me. He made out the 
deeds and gave them to me, and I got them recorded, and he gave up 
the notes, except a few. I then said to Uncle John Smith, if you go 
there with the brethren, I will give you the property. But he would 
not accept it. I then let the same gentleman have some cloth to the 
amount of $000 or $700. He began, soon after, to tell the brethren 
what obligations I was under to him. I then wrote him a letter ou the 
subject; but I have since found that he is swindling, and that there is 
no prospect of getting anything from him. He is owing me about 
$1,100; and I thought it my duty to publish his rascality, that the elders 
might do the same in that territory, and prevent the brethren from be- 
ing imposed upon. He has got a writing to this effect, that if he owned 
as much as he pretended and did as he said, I would give my influence 
to build up Keokuk, and on no other terms. His name is J. G. Remick. 
He took this plan to swindle me out of money, cloth, lumber, etc. I 
want all the congregation to know it, I was not going to use any in- 
fluence to have the brethren go to be swindled. My advice is, if they 
choose, that they come away from Keokuk, and not go there any more. 
It is not a good location. ^ 

I am not so much a "Christian" as many suppose I am. When a man 
undertakes to ride me for a horse, I feel disposed to kick up and throw 
him off, and ride him. David did so, and so did Joshua. My only 
weapon is my tongue. I would not buy property in Iowa territory: I 
consider it stooping to accept it as a gift. *~- 



336 HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. ' [A.D. 1843 

In relation to the half-breed land, it is best described by its name — it 
is half-breed land; and every wise and judicious person as soon as he 
can dispose of his effects, if he is not a half-breed, will come away. I 
wish we could exchange some half-breeds and let them go over the 
river. If there are any that are not good citizens, they will be finding 
fault tomorrow at my remarks, and that is the key-word whereby you 
may know them. There is a chance in that place for every abomination 
to be practiced on the innocent, if they go; and I ask forgiveness of all 
whom I advised to go there. The men who have possession have the 
best title; all the rest are forms for swindling. I do not wish for the 
Saints to have a quarrel there. 

President Joseph Smith stated that the next business ^as to settle 
difficulties where elders have had their licenses taken away, etc, or 
their membership. But whilst they were preparing, if there was any 
such case, he would talk on other subjects. 

THE PROPHET ON THE SECOND COMING OF THE CHRIST. 

The question has been asked, can a person not belonging to the 
Church bring a member before the high council for trial? I answer, 
No. If I had not actually got into this work and been called of God, I 
would back out. But I cannot back out: I have no doubt of the truth. 
Were I going to prophesy, I would say the end [of the world] would 
not come in 1844, 5, or G, or in forty years. There are those of the rising 
generation who shall not taste death till Christ comes. 

I was once praying earnestly upon this subject, and a voice said unto 
me, "My son, if thou livest until thou art eighty-five years of age, thou 
shalt see the face, of the Son of Man." I was left to draw my own con- 
clusions concerning this; and I took the liberty to conclude that if I did 
live to that time, He would make His appearance. But I do not say 
whether He will make his appearance or I shall go where He is. I 
prophesy in the name of the Lord God, and let it be written — the Son 
of Man will not come in the clouds of heaven till I am eighty-five years 
old. Then read the 14th chapter of Revelation, Gth and 7th verses — 
"And I saw another angel fiy in the midst of heaven, having the ever- 
lasting gospel to preach unt^ them that dwell on the earth, and to every 
nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, 
Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment is come." 
And Hosea, Gth chapter, After two days, etc., — 2,520 years; which 
brings it to 1890. The coming of the Son of Man never will be— never 
can be till the judgments spoken of for this hour are poured out: which 
judgments are commenced. Paul says, "Ye are the children of the light, 
and not of the darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief in 
the night. 1 ' It is not the design of the Almighty to come upon the earth 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 337 

and crush it and grind it to powder, but he will reveal it to His servants 
the prophets. 

Judah must return, Jerusalem must be rebuilt, and the temple, and 
water come out from under the temple, and the waters of the Dead Sea 
be healed. It will take some time to rebuild the walls of the city and 
the temple, &c. ; and all this must be done before the Son of Man will 
make His appearance. There will be wars and rumors of wars, signs in 
the heavens above and on the earth beneath, the sun turned into 
darkness and the moon to blood, earthquakes in divers places, the seas 
heaving beyond their bounds; then will appear one grand sign of the 
Son of Man in heaven. But what will the world do? They will say it 
is a planet, a comet, &c. But the Son of Man will come as the sign of 
the coming of the Son of Man, which will be as the light of the morning 
cometh out of the east. 

Choir sang a hymn. 

Prayer by W. W. Phelps. 

Adjourned at six p. m., until tomorrow morning. 

Friday , 7. — 

Conference convened at ten a. m. 

Singing, prayer by Elder Orson Hyde, and singing. 

President Joseph Smith stated that the next business in order was to 
listen to appeals of elders, &c; but none appeared. He was rather 
hoarse from speaking so long yesterday, and therefore said he would 
use the boys' lungs to^ay. 

The next business in order was to appoint some elders on missions. 

Voted that Jedediah M. Grant be sent to preside over the church at 
Philadelphia. 

Voted that Joshua Grant be sent to preside over the church at 
Cincinnati. 

Voted that Pelatiah Brown go to the village of Palmyra, in New 
York, and raise up a branch of the Church, 

Complaints Against the Temple Committee. 

The Temple committee was called up for trial. 

William Clayton said : Some may expect I am going to be a means of 
the downfall of the Temple committee. It is not so; but I design to 
show that they have been partial. Elder Higbee has overrun the 
amount allowed by the trustees about one-fourth. Pretty much all Elder 
Higbee's son has received has been in money and store pay. Higbee's 
son has had nothing credited on his tithing. William P. Cahoon has 

22 Vol.V. 



338 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

paid all his tenth; the other sons of Cahoon have had nothing to their 
credit on tithing. The committee have had a great amount of store 
pay. One man, who is laboring continually, wanted twenty-five cents 
in store pay when his family were sick; but Higbee said he could not 
have Eit. Pulaski S. Cahoon was never appointed boss over the 
stone-cutting shop, but was requested to keep an account of labor in it. 
During the last six months very little means have been brought into 
the Temple committee. There are certain individuals in this city who 
are watching every man who has anything to give the Temple, to get it 
from him and pay for the same in his labor. 

Alpheus Cutler said he did not know of any wrong he had done. If 
any one would show it, he would make it right. 

The conference voted him clear. 

Reynolds Cahoon said : This is not an unexpected matter for me to be 
called up. I do not want you to think I am perfect. Somehow or 
other, since Elder Cutler went up into the pine country, I have, from 
some cause been placed in very peculiar circumstances. I think I 
never was placed in so critical a position since I was born. When 
President Smith had goods last summer, we had better property; goods 
would not buy corn without some cash: instead of horses, &c, we took 
store pay. I have dealt out meal and flour to the hands to the last 
ounce, when I had not a morsel of meal, flour or bread left in my house. 
If the trustee, Brother Hyrum, or the Twelve, or all of them will 
examine and see if I have too much, it shall go freely. I call upon the 
brethren, if they have anything against me, to bring it forward and 
have it adjusted. 

Patriarch Hyrnm Smith said: I feel it my duty to defend the 
committee as far as I can; for I would as soon go to hell as be a 
committee-man. I will make a comparison for the Temple committee. 
A little boy once told his father he had seen an elephant on a tree; 
the people did not believe it, but ran out to see what it was: they 
looked, and it was only an owl. 

Reynolds Cahoon said, when Brother Cutler was gone, Brother Higbee 
kept the books, and they have found as many mistakes against Brother 
Higbee as in his favor. 

The conference then voted Cahoon clear. 

Elias Higbee said: I am not afraid or ashamed to appear before you. 
When I kept the books, I had much other business on my hands and 
made some mistakes. 

The conference voted in favor of Elder Higbee unanimously. 

President Joseph Smith stated that the business of the conference 
had closed, and the remainder would be devoted to instruction. It is 
an insult to a meeting for persons to leave just before its close. If they 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 339 

must go out, let them go half an hour before. No gentlemen will go 
out of meeting just at closing. 

Singing by the choir. 

Prayer by Elder Brigham Young. 

Ihe Afternoon Session. 

Conference called to order at two-thirty p. m. 

Singing. Prayer by Elder Brigham Young. Singing. 

Elder Orson Pratt delivered a discourse from the prophecy of 
Daniel on the Ancient of Days; for a synopsis of which see Times and 
Seasons, page 204. 

While the choir was singing, President Joseph remarked to Elder 
Rigdon: This day is a millennium within these walls, for there is 
nothing but peace. 

To a remark of Elder Orson Pratt's, that a man's body changes 
every seven years, President Joseph Smith replied: There is no 
fundamental principle belonging to a human system that ever goes 
into another in this world or in the world to come; I care not what the 
theories of men are. We have the testimony that God will raise us up, 
and he has the power to do it. If any one supposes that any part of 
our bodies, that is, the fundamental parts thereof, ever goes into 
another body, he is mistaken. 

Singing by the choir. Prayer by Elder John Taylor. 

The ice, which had made a bridge across the river since 
last November, moved away in immense masses. 

Morning Session of the Conference, Saturday, April 8th, 1843. 

President Joseph Smith addressed the Saints. [The following 
synopsis was reported by Willard Richards and William Clayton:] 

President Joseph Smith called upon the choir to sing a hymn, and 
remarked that "tenor charms the ear, bass, the heart." After singing, 
he spoke as follows: 

I have three requests to make of the congregation: The first is, that 
all who have faith will exercise it and pray the Lord to calm the wind ; 
for as it blows now, I cannot speak long without seriously injuring my 
health; the next is that I may have your prayers that the Lord will 
strengthen my lungs, so that I may be able to make you all hear; and 
the third is, that you will pray for the Holy Ghost to rest upon me, so 
as to enable me to declare those things that are true. 

The Prophet Expounds the Scriptures. 
The subject I intend to speak upon this morning is one that I have 



310 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D, 1843 

seldom touched upon since I commenced my ministry in the Church. It 
is a subject of great speculation, as well amongst the elders of this 
Church, as amongst the divines of the day: it is in relation to the beasts 
spoken of by John the Revelator. I have seldom spoken from the 
revelations; but as my subject is a constant source of speculation 
amougst the elders, causing a division of seutiment and opinion in 
relation to it, I now do it in order that division and difference of opinion 
may be done away with, and not that correct knowledge on the subject 
is so much needed at the present time. 

It is not very essential for the elders to have knowledge in relation 
to the meaning of beasts, and heads and horns, and other figures made 
use of in the revelations; still, it may be necessary, to prevent 
contention and division and do away with suspense. If we get puffed 
up by thinking that we have much knowledge, we are apt to get a 
contentious spirit, and correct knowledge is necessary to cast out that 
spirit. 

The evil of being puffed up with correct (though useless) knowledge 
is not so great as the evil of contention. Knowledge does away with 
darkness, suspense and doubt; for these cannot exist where 
knowledge is. 

There is no pain so awful as that of suspense. This is the punishment 
of the wicked; their doubt, anxiety and suspense cause weeping, 
wailing and gnashing of teeth. 

In knowledge there is power. God has more power than all other 
beings, because he has greater knowledge; and hence he knows how 
to subject all other beings to Him. He has power over all. 

I will endeavor to instruct you in relation to the meaning of 
the beasts and figures spoken of. I should not have called up the 
subject had it not been for this circumstance. Elder Pelatiah Brown, 
one of the wisest old heads we have among us, and whom I now see 
before me, has been preaching concerning the beast which was full of 
eyes before and behind; and for this he was hauled up for trial before 
the High Council. 

I did not like the old man being called up for erring in doctrine. It 
looks too much like the Methodist, and not like the Latter-day Saints. 
Methodists have creeds which a man must believe or be asked out of 
their church. I want the liberty of thinking and believing as I please. 
It feels so good not to be trammelled. It does not prove that a man is 
not a good man because he errs in doctrine. 

The High Council undertook to censure and correct Elder Brown, 
because of his teachings in relation to the beasts. Whether they 
actually corrected him or not, I am a little doubtful, but don't care. 
Father Brown came to me to know what he should do about it. The 



A.O. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 341 

subiect particularly referred to was the four beasts and four-and-twenty 
elders mentioned in Rev. 5: 8 — "And when he had taken the book, the 
four beasts and four-and-twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, 
having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odors, which 
are the prayers of saints." 

Father Brown has been to work and confounded all Christendom by 
making out that the four beasts represented the different kingdoms of 
God on the earth. The wise men of the dav could not do anything with 
him, and why should we find fault? Anything: to whip sectarianism, 
to put down priestcraft, and bring the human family to a knowledge of 
the truth. A club is better than no weapon for a poor man to fight 
with. 

Father Brown did whip sectarianism, and so far so good; but I could 
not help laughing at che idea of God making use of the figure of a 
beast to represent His kiugdom on the earth, consisting of men. when 
He could as well have used a far more noble and consistent figure. 
What! the Lord make use of the figure of a creature of the brute 
creation to represent that which is much more noble, glorious, and 
important — the glories and majesty of His kingdom? By taking a lesser 
figure to represent a greater, you missed it that time, old gentleman; 
but the sectarians did not know enough to detect you. 

When God made use of the figure of a beast in visions to the prophets 
He did it to represent those kingdoms which had degenerated and 
become corrupt, savage and beast-like in their dispositions, even the 
degenerate kingdoms of the wicked world; but He never made use of 
the figure of a beast nor any of the brute kind to represent His 
kingdom. 

^Daniel says (ch. 7, v. 16) when he saw the vision of the four beasts, 
4 'I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth 
of all this," the angel interpreted the vision to Daniel; but we find, by 
the interpretation that the figures of beasts had no allusion to the 
kingdom of God. You there see that the beasts are spoken of to 
represent the kingdoms of the world] the inhabitants whereof were 
beastly and abominable characters; they were murderers, corrupt, 
carnivorous, and brutal in their dispositions. The lion, the bear, the 
leopard, (and the ten-horned beast represented the kingdoms of the 
world, says Daniel; for I refer to the prophets to qualify my 
observations which I make, so that the young elders who know so 
much, may not rise up like a flock of hornets and sting m£7 I want to 
keep out of such a wasp-nest. 

(There is a grand difference .and distinction between the visions and 
figures spoken of by the ancient prophets, and those spoken of in the 
revelations of John. The things which John saw had no allusion to the 



342 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

scenes of the days of Adam, Enoch, Abraham or Jesus, only so far as 
is plainly represented by John, and clearly set forth by him. John saw 
that only which was lying in futurity and which was shortly to come to 
passT} See Rev. i: 1-3, which is a key to the whole subject: "The 
revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, to show unto 
his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and He sent and 
signified it by His angel unto His servant John: who bare record of the 
word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things 
that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words 
of this prophecy, and keep those things that are written therein: for the 
time is at hand." Also Rev. iv: 1. "After this I looked, and, behold* 
a door was opeued in heaven; and the first voice which I heard was as 
it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and 
I will show thee things which must be hereafter." 

The four beasts and twenty-four elders were out of every nation; for 
they sang a new song, saying,* 'Thou art worthy to take the book, and to 
open the seal thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God 
by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation." 
(See He v. 5: 9.) It would be great stuffing to crowd all nations into 
four beasts and twenty-four elders. 

Now, I make this declaration, that ]those things which John saw in 
heaven had no allusion to anything that had been^on the earth previous 
to that time, because they were the representation of "things which 
must shortly come to pass," and not of what has already transpired. 
John saw beasts that had to do with things on the earth, but not in past 
ages. The beasts which John saw had to devour the inhabitants of the 
earth in days to come. "And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the 
seals; and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four 
beasts saying, Come and see. And I saw, and beheld a white horse: and 
he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he 
went forth conquering, and to conquer. And when he had opened the 
second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. And there 
went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that 
sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one 
another: and there was given unto him a great sword." (Rev. 6: 1, 2. 
3, 4.) The book of Revelation is one of the plainest books God ever 
caused to be written. 

The revelations do not give us to understand anything of the past in 
relation to the kingdom of God. What John saw and speaks of were 
things which he saw in heaven; those which Daniel saw were on and 
pertaining to the earth. 

Q am now going to take exceptions to the present translation of the 
Bible in relation to these matters. Our latitude and longitude can be 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 343 

determined in the original Hebrew with far greater accuracy than in 
the English version. There is a grand distinction between the actual 
meaning of the prophets and the present translation. The prophets do 
not declare that they saw a beast or beasts, but that they saw the image 
or figure of a beast. Daniel did not see an actual bear or a lion, but 
the images or figures of those beasts. The translation should have 
been rendered ' 'image'' instead of * "beast," in every instance where 
beasts are mentioned by the prophets. But John saw the actual beast 
in heaven, showing to John that beasts did actually exist there, and not 
to represent figures of things on the earth. When the prophets speak 
of seeing beasts in their visions, they mean that they saw the images, 
they being types to represent certain things. At the same time they 
received the interpretation as to what those images or types were 
designed to represent. 

I make this broad declaration, that whenever God gives a vision of an 
image, or beast, or figure of any kind, He always holds Him- 
self responsible to give a revelation or interpretation of the 
meaning thereof, otherwise we are not responsible or accountable 
for our belief in it. Don't be afraid of being damned for not knowing- 
the meaning of a vision or figure, if God has not given a revelation or 
interpretation of the subject.y 

John saw curious looking beasts in heaven; he saw every creature 
that was in heaven, — all the beasts, fowls and fish in heaven, — actually 
there, giving glory to God. How do you prove it*? (See Rev. 5: 13.) 
"And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under 
the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I 
saying, Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that 
sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.*' 

I suppose John saw beings there of a thousand forms, that had been 
saved from ten thousand times ten thousand earths like this, — strange 
beasts of which we have no conception: all might be seen in heaven. 
The grand secret was to show John what there was in heaven. John 
learned that God glorified Himself by saving all that His hands had 
made, whether beasts, fowls, fishes or men; and He will glorify Himself 
with them. 

Says one, "I cannot believe in the salvation of beasts." Any man who 
would tell you that this could not be,would tell you that the revelations 
are not true. John heard the words of the beasts giving glory to God, 
and understood them. God who made the beasts could understand 
every language spoken by them. The four beasts were four of the 
most noble animals that had filled the measure of their creation, and 
had been saved from other worlds, because they were perfect: they 
were like angels in their sphere. We are not told where they came 



344 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. LA.D. 1843 

from, and I do not know; but they were seen and heard by John 
praising and glorifying God. 

The popular religionists of the day tell us, forsooth, that the beasts 
spoken of in the Revelation represent kingdoms. Very well, on the 
same principle we can say that the twenty-four elders spoken of 
represent beasts; for they are all spoken of at the same time, and 
are represented as all uniting in the same acts of praise and devotion. 

This learned interpretation is all as flat as a pancake! "What do 
you use such vulgar expressions for, being a prophet?" Because the 
old women understand it — they make pancakes. Deacon Homespun 
said the earth was flat as a pancake, and ridicirled the science which 
proved to the contrary. The whole argument is flat, and I don't know 
of anything better to represent it. The world is full of technicalities 
and misrepresentation, which I calculate to overthrow, and speak of 
things as they actually exist. 

Again, there is no revelation to prove that things do not exist in 
heaven as I have set forth, nor yet to show that the beasts meant 
anything but beasts; and we never can comprehend the things of God 
and of heaven, but by revelation. We may spiritualize and express 
opinions to all eternity; but that is no authority. 

Oh ye elders of Israel, harken to my voice; and when you are sent 
into the world to preach, tell those things yon are sent to tell; preach 
and cry aloud, "Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand; 
repent and believe the Gospel." Declare the first principles, and let 
mysteries alone, lest ye be overthrown. Never meddle with the visions 
of beasts and subjects you do not understand. Elder Brown, when you 
go to Palmyra, say nothing about the four beasts, but preach those 
things the Lord has told you to preach about— repentance and baptism 
for the remission of sins. 

He then read Rev. 13: 1—8. John says, "And I saw one of his 
heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed; 
and all the world wondered after the beast." Some spiritualizers say 
the beast that received the wound was Nebuchadnezzar, some 
Constantine, some Mohammed, and others the Roman Catholic Church; 
but we will look at what John saw in relation to this beast. Now for 
the wasp's nest. The translators have used the term "dragon" for' 
devil. Now it was a beast that John saw in heaven, and he was then 
speaking of "things which must shortly come to pass;" and 
consequently the beast that" John saw could not be Nebuchadnezzar. 
The beast John saw was an actual beast, and an actual intelligent 
being gives him his power, and his seat, and great authority. It was 
not to represent a beast in heaven: it was an angel in heaven who has 
power in the last days to do a work. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 345 

''All the world wondered after the beast," Nebuchadnezzar and 
Constantine the Great not excepted. And if the beast was all the world, 
how could the world wonder after the beast? It must have been a 
wonderful beast to cause all human beings to wonder after it; and I 
will venture to say that when God allows the old devil to give power to 
the beast to destroy the inhabitants of the earth, all will wonder. 
Verse 4 reads, "And they worshiped the dragon which gave power unto 
the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the 
beast? Who is able to make war with him? 

Some say it means the kingdom of the world. One thing is sure, 
it does not mean the kingdom of the Saints. Suppose we admit that 
it means the kingdoms of the world, what propriety would there be in 
saying, Who is able to make war with my great big self? If these 
spiritualized interpretations are true, the book contradicts itself in 
almost every verse. But they are not true. 

There is a mistranslation of the word dragon in the second verse. 
The original word signifies the devil, and not dragon, as translated. 
In chapter 12, verse 9, it reads, "That old serpent, called the devil," 
and it ought to be translated devil in this case, and not dragon. It is 
sometimes translated Apollyon. Everything that we have not a 
key-word to, we will take it as it reads. The beasts which John saw and 
speaks of as being in heaven, were actually living in heaven, and were 
actually to have power given to them over the inhabitants of the earth, 
precisely according to the plain reading of the revelations. I give this 
as a key to the elders of Israel. The independent beast is a beast that 
dwells in heaven, abstract [apart] from the human family. The beast that 
rose up out of the sea should be translated the image of a beast, as I 
have referred to it in Daniel's vision. 

I have said more than I ever did before, except once at Ramus, and 
then up starts the little fellow (Charles Thompson) and stuffed me like 
a cock-turkey with the prophesies of Daniel, and crammed it down my 
throat with his finger. 

At half-past eleven o'clock President Smith's lungs failed him, the 
wind blowing briskly at the time. 

Choir sung a hymn. 

Elder John Taylor rose and made a few remarks, among which were 
the following: "I have never said much about the beasts, &c, in my 
preaching. When I have done it, it has been to attract attention and 
keep the people from running after a greater fool than myself. 

Singing and prayer. 

Adjourned till two p. m. 

A strong west wind ; ice floating down the Mississippi 
seen from the stand. 



346 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Afternoon Session, two p. m. 

Conference again opened; but the wind being too strong, the 
congregation made a temporary stand at the east end of the Temple 
walls, when Elder Taylor resumed his remarks on the kingdom of God 
being set up in the last days, which will be like the little stone cut out 
of the mountain. 

Elder Orson Hyde said it was three years since he met with the Saints 
and was set apart for his mission to Jerusalem. He had traveled in the 
four quarters of the globe and had been among people speaking 
fourteen or fifteen different languages, and they all agree that some 
great event is close at hand. 

Singing and prayer. 

Sunday, 9th. Conference opened by singing, "The Spirit of God like 
a fire is burning." 

Prayer and singing. In consequence of President Joseph Smith 
being afflicted in his lungs and breast, he was not able to preach, and 
called on Elder Joshua Grant to speak, who stated that he had just 
returned from a mission of three years. He had traveled through 
several states, and had, in company with his brother, Jedediah M. 
Grant, raised up a church of two hundred members. For synopsis of 
discourse, see Times and Seasons, vol. iv, page 236-7. 

Elder Amasa M. Lyman also preached an eloquent discourse on the 
Book of Mormon, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. See 
limes and Seasons, vol. iv, pages 218-20. 



A.D. 1S43J HISTORY OF THE CHUJRCH. 347 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

A GREAT MISSIONARY MOVEMENT— SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO 
ELDERS UNDERTAKING MISSIONS—IMPRISONMENT OF ORRIN 
P. ROCKWELL — ARRIVAL OF SAINTS FROM ENGLAND — 
SPEECH OF THE PROPHET — INDIAN ELOQUENCE. 

Monday, April 10, 1843. — At 10 a. m. a special confer- 
ence of elders convened and continued by adjournment 
from time to time till the 12th. There were 

. A Special 

present of the quorum of the Twelve, Brigham conference 
Younsc, president; Heber C. Kimball, William 
Smith, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John 
Taylor, George A. Smith, and Willard Richards. 

The object of the conference was to ordain elders and 
send them forth into the vineyard to build up churches ; 
and the following appointments were made, with united 
voices by the conference, agreeable to requests which were 
made by individuals who were acquainted with the several 
places which they represented: — 

Names dnd Appointments of Elders. 

James M. Munroe and Truman Gillet, Aubuim, New York. 

Dominicus Carter, Lockport, Indiana. 

Joshua Holman and John Pierce, Madison, Indiana. 

Wandall Mace and Isaac C. Haight, Orange county, New York. 

William 0. Clark, Richardson Settlement, Iowa. 

Benjamin L. Clapp, John Blair, Wilkinson Hewitt, and Lyman 0. 
LiUlefield, Alabama. 

Alonzo Whitney and J. Goodale, Dublin, Ohio. 

William Eaton, Westfield, Sullivan county, New York. 

Zebedee Coltrin, Graham Coltrin, and James H. Flanigan, Smith and 
Tazwell counties, Virginia. 



348 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. |A.D. 1843 

Jonathan Dunham, Laurenceburgh, Indiana. 

Lewis Robbins and Jacob Gates have a roving commission in Mas- 
sachusetts, with leave to take their wives, but to keep out of the 
churches. 

Stephen Mark ham and Truman Waite, Huron county, Ohio. 

John D. Chase and A. M. Hardiug, Pittsfield, Vermont. 

Amos B. Fuller and Cyrus H. Wheelock, Windham county, Ver- 
mont. 

John S. Gleason and Henry C. Jacobs, west part of the State of New 
York. 

Marcellus L. Bates and Norman B. Shearer, Sackets Harbor, New 
York. 

Samuel Brown, Maryland. 

Lemuel Mallory and George Slater, Washtenau county, Michigan. 

Moses Wade, some county in New York, where there has not been 
any preaching by the Saints. 

Chillion Daniels and Ebenezar Robinson, St. Lawrence county, New 
York. 

William Brown and Daniel Cathcart, Pensacola, Florida. 

Eleazar Willis, go where he likes. 

John Zundall, St. Clair county, Illinois. 

Crandall Dunn, Michigan. 

George Middow, Waterloo, Canada. 

Samuel H. Rogers and Harvey Green, Cumberland, New Jersey. 

Daniel Spencer, Canada. 

Elias Harmar, Chenansro county, New York. 

Harvey Tate, Fort Wayne, Indiana; Robert D. Foster and Jonathan 
Allen, Tioga county, New York. 

William Wharton, of Philadelphia, Wilmington, Delaware. 

Leonard Soby, Peru, Indiana. 

Warner Hoops, York county, Pennsylvania. 

F. D. Wilson and George W. Brandon, Dyer and Montgomery coun- 
ties, Tennessee. 

Elisha H. Groves and George P. Dykes, from Terre Haute to Shaw- 
neetown and Cairo, on both sides of the Wabash. 

Perigrine Sessions, Oxford county, Maine. 

John L. Butler and David Lewis, Lexington, Kentucky. 

Charles C. Rich, Ottowa, Illinois. 

William W. Rust, Worcester county, Massachusetts. 

Aaron M. York, Maine. 

Asaph Rice, Pontiac, Michigan. 

Orson Spencer, New Haven, Connecticut. 
Lorin Farr, Connecticut. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 349 

Stephen Perry, Amos B. Tomlinson, E. G. Terrill, Amos P. Rogers 
Joseph Outhouse, and William Bird, Connecticut. 

Francis Edwards and Charles Ryan, Jackson county, Tennessee. 

Benjamin Kempton, Wheeling to Mount Vernon, Ohio. 

Peter Hess, of Philadelphia, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. 

Noah Curtis and Luman H. Calkins, Wayne county, New York. 

Stratton Thornton and Sandfoid Porter, south-east part of Illinois 
and Indiana. 

Benjamin Leland and Eden Smith Erie county, Pennsylvania. 

Samuel Swarner, Orleans county, New York. 

Samuel Parker, York county, Maine. 

Jacob E. Terry and Err Terry, Niagara district, Upper Canada. 

Edward P. Duzette and Elisha Edwards, Loraine and Huron coun- 
ties, Ohio. 

Edwin Williams, Hunterdon county, New Jersey. 

Jacob G. Bigler, Lewis county, Virginia. 

Orlando Hovey, Franklin county, Indiana. 

William B. Brink, some place in the interior of Pennsylvania, where 
the elders have not been. 

F. B. Jaeaway and Samuel Rowland, Adams county, Ohio. 

Moses Tracy, Perry county Illinois. 

Alfred Brown, Chautauque county, New York. 

Noah Rogers, Peter Lemons, Joseph Mount, B. W. Wilson, Addison 
Pratt, and John Brown, Vermont. 

Samuel C. Brown to labor on the Temple. 

James Caroll, Henry county, Indiana. 

Levi Stewart and James Pace, Williamson and Gallatin counties, 
Illinois. 

Edwin Clegg, Rock Island, Illinois. 

John Cams, Richmond, Indiana. 

Edward Bosley and Rodman Clark, Livingston county, New York. 

James Hutchins and Daniel Tyler, Natchez, Mississippi. 

George M. Chase, Geauga county, Ohio. 

John Royce, Sing Sing, New York. 

Lyman Whitney, Franklin county, Vermont. 

Charles Ryan, Jacob E. Terry, Henry Moore, Samuel P. Carter, Wil- 
liam Isherwood, Samuel Rowland, Dorr P. Curtis, Abraham S. Work- 
man, Jeremiah Hatch, James G. Culberston, Samuel Ferrin, Samuel 
Crane, David Moore, William Brown, Benjamin Barber, Oliver B. Hun- 
tington, Edward Clegg, Daniel McRae, William S. Covert, William B. 
Brink, James Long, and William Empy were ordained elders, with this 
express injuoction, that they quit the use of tobacco and keep the Word 
of Wisdom. 



350 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH • (A.D. 1843 

Almon W. Babbitt was restored to fellowship by the conference. 

Elder Curtis Hodges (who has a wife in this place,) was cut off 
from the Church for his anti- Christian conduct in Warrick county, In- 
diana. 

Elders James Allred, John Snider, and Aaron Johnson were ap- 
pointed to administer baptism for the dead in the river while the font 
could not be used. 

President Young instructed the elders not to go from church to 
church for the purpose of living themselves or begging for their families 
or for preaching, but to go to their places of destination, journeying 
among the world and preaching by the way as they have opportunity; 
and if they get anything for themselves, they must do it in those 
churches they shall build up or from the world, and not enter into other 
men's labors. 

Several elders have been presented to us having traveled extensively 
the past season, preaching but little or none, living on the brethren and 
begging for their own emolument. Such elders, be they where they may, 
far or near, are instructed to repair forthwith to Nauvoo and give an 
account of their stewardship, and report the amount of leg service 
performed by them, and on their return be sure to keep out of the 
churches. 

It is wisdom for the elders to leave their families in this place when 
they have anything to leave with them; and let not the elders go on 
their missions until they have provided for their families. No man need 
say again, "I have a call to travel and preach,' ■ while he has not a 
comfortable house for his family, a lot fenced, and one year's provi- 
sions in store, or sufficient to last his family during his mission or means 
to provide it. 

The Lord will not condemn any man for following counsel and keep- 
ing the commandments; and a faithful man will have dreams about the 
work he is engaged in. If he is engaged in building the Temple, he 
will dream about it; and if in preaching, he will dream about that; and 
not, when he is laboring on the Temple, dream that it is his duty to run 
off preaching and leave his family to starve. Such dreams are not of 
God. 

When I was sick last winter, some of the sisters came and whispered 
in my ear, "I have nothing to eat." Where is your husband? "He is 
gone a preaching." "Who sent him?" said I; "for the Lord never sent 
him, to leave his family to starve." 

When the Twelve went to England, they went on a special mission, 
by special commandment, and they left their families sick and destitute, 
God having promised that they should be provided for. But God does 
not require the same thing of the elders now, neither does He promise 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 351 

to provide for their families when they leave them contrary to counsel. 
The elders must provide for their families. 

I wish to give a word of advice to the sisters, and I will give it to my 
wife, I have known elders who had by some means got in debt, but 
had provided well for their families during their contemplated mission; 
and after they had taken their departure, their creditors would teaze 
their wives for the pay due from their husbands, till they would give 
them the last provision they had left them, and they were obliged to 
subsist on charity or starve till their husbands returned. Such a course 
of conduct on the part of the creditor is anti-Christian and criminal; 
and I forbid my wife from paying one cent of my debts while I am ab- 
sent attending to the things of the kingdom; aud I want the sisters to 
act on the same principle. 

Elder Orson Hyde said, if there is an elder who does not provide for 
his family in the unrighteous mammon, shall we commit to him the true 
riches, the priesthood, missions, etc.? No! 

Elder Wilford Woodruff requested the elders to remember in their 
travels that there was a printing press in Nauvoo, and that it is in the 
hands of the Church, and wished the elders would procure subscribers 
for the papers, collect pay for the same, and forward it to the editor in 
cash, 

Elder Heber C. Kimball instructed the elders that when they found a 
place where the people wanted preaching, they must stay themselves 
and preach, and not run away somewhere else and write to Nauvoo to 
have elders sent to the place they had left. 

Elders Wilford Woodruff and John Taylor requested that when the 
elders had built up a church, they would write a brief statement of 
facts, unencumbered with useless matter, and forward their communi- 
cation to the editor of the Times and Seasons post paid. 

The elders were reminded that they need not expect any attention 
would be given to unpaid letters directed to the Presidency. 

The elders were also reminded that although they were not sent out 
to be taught, but to teach, yet, if they would prosper in their missions, 
they must be careful to teach those things alone which would be profit- 
able to their hearers; that they must bear their testimony of the truth 
of the fullness of the gospel, and preach nothing but faith and repent- 
ance to this generation; and that if they presumed to teach to babes 
those things which belong to men, they might expect to return to Nau- 
voo as destitute as they went out; but if they adhered closely to the first 
principles, and taught the "Word of Wisdom'' more by example than 
by precept, walking before God and the world in all meekness and low- 
liness of heart, living by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth 
of the Lord, they might expect an abundant harvest; and as doves re- 



o52 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [&.!>. 1843 

turn to their windows in flocks when they see the storm approaching, 
so will multitudes, by listening to their voices, learn of the things which 
await the earth, and arise and flee, and return unto Mount Zion and 
her stakes with them who shall be seals of their ministry in the day of 
celestial light and glory. 

Brigham Young, President. 
W. Richards, Clerk. 

1 gave a letter of attorney to Benjamin F. Johnson to 
sell some of the Church property in Macedonia. 

A conference was held at Batavia, New York, on the 
6th and 7th of April ; Elder John P. Greene, president; 
. „ R. J. Coats, Clerk. Eleven branches, one 
York, confer- hundred sixty-seven members, one high priest, 
forty-eight elders, two priests, and three 
teachers were represented in good standing; a general 
spirit of enquiry prevailing. Seven elders were ordained. 
Elder Greene and others delivered addresses to the elders 
on the signs of the times, the mission of the Prophet, and 
the building of the Temple. 

A conference was also held in the House of the Lord at 
Kirtland, at which was passed a resolution for the removal 
Kirtiand Con- of all the Saints in that place to Nauvoo. 
ference. Elder Lyman Wight, the president, preached 

several times, and about one hundred apostates and a few 
new members were baptized during the conference. 

J. H. Reynolds wrote to Bishop Newel K. Whitney on 
the 7th as follows : 

Letter of J. H. Reynolds to Newel K. Whitney — Imprisonment of Orrin 

P. RockivelL 

Independence, Mo., April 7, 1843. 
Sir: — At the request of Orrin Porter Rockwell, who is now confined 
in our jail, I write you a few lines concerning* his affairs. He is held 
to bail in the sum of $5,000, and wishes some of his friends to bail him 
out. He also wishes some friend to bring his clothes to him. He is in 
good health and pretty good spirits. My own opinion is, after convers- 
ing with several persons here, that it would not be safe for any of Mr. 
Rockwell's friends to come here, notwithstanding I have written the 
above at his request; neither do I think bail would be takeu (unless 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 353 

it was some responsible person well known here fas a resident of this 
state). Any letter to Mr. Rockwell, (post paid,) with authority ex- 
pressed on the back for me to open it, will be handed to him without 
delay. In the meantime he will be humanely treated and dealt with 
kindly until discharged by due course of law. 

Yours, etc., 

J. H. Reynolds. 
Mr. Newel K, Whitney. 

The plague appeared at Alexandria, Mansourah, and 
Damietta, making great ravages. 

Tuesday , 11. — In the office most of the day. Some rain 
and wind. 

A volcano broke out near Konigshutte, in Silesia. 

Wednesday , 12. — In conversation with Mr. Gillet con- 
cerning the Hotchkiss purchase. 

In consequence of misunderstanding on the part of the 
Temple committee, and their interference with the busi- 
ness of the architect, I gave a certificate to overseer of 
William Weeks to carry out my designs and ^mpi^A*- 
the architecture of the Temple in Nauvoo, and p° inted - 
that no person or persons shall interfere with him or his 
plans in the building of the Temple. 

Before the elders' conference closed,* the steamer Ama- 
ranth appeared in sight of the Temple, coming up the 
river, and about noon landed her passengers . , £ 

7 x ° Arrival of 

at the wharf opposite the old post office build- saints from 
ing, consisting of about two hundred and forty 
Saints from England, under the charge of Elder Lorenzo 
Snow, who left Liverpool last January, after a mission of 
nearly three years. With a large company of the brethren 
and sisters I was present to greet the arrival of our 
friends, and gave notice to the new-comers to meet at the 
Temple tomorrow morning at ten o'clock, to hear instruc- 
tions. 

After unloading the Saints, the Amaranth proceeded up 
the river, being the first boat up this season. 

* The conference of the elders continued from the 10th of April to the 12th, it 
will be remembered. See page 347. 

23 Vol. V 



354 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

About five p. m. the steamer Maid of Iowa hauled up 
at the Nauvoo House landing, and disembarked about two 
hundred Saints, in charge of Elders Parley P. Pratt and 
Levi Richards. These had been detained at St. Louis, 
Alton, Chester, etc, through the winter, having left Liver- 
pool last fall. Dan Jones, captain of the Maid of Iowa, 
was baptized a few weeks since : he has been eleven days 
coming from St. Louis, being detained by ice. I was 
present at the landing and the first on board the steamer, 
when I met Sister Mary Ann Pratt (who had been to Eng- 
land with Brother Parley,) aud her little daughter, only 
three or four days old. I could not refrain from shedding 
tears. 

So many of my friends and acqaintances arriving in one 
day kept me very busy receiviiag their congratulations and 
answering their questions. I was rejoiced to meet them 
in such good health and fine spirits ; for they were equal 
to any that had ever come to Nauvoo. 

Thursday, 13. — Municipal Court met at nine a. m. to 
hear the case of Dana v. Brink on appeal, but adjourned 
the case to the 19th. 

At ten a. m. the emigrants and a great multitude of 
others assembled at the Temple. Choir sung a hymn; 
prayer by Elder Heber C. Kimball; when I addressed the 
Saints. [The following synopsis was written by Willard 
Richards : ] 

Remarks oj the Prophet to the Saints Newly Arrived from England. 

I most heartily congratulate you on your safe arrival in Nauvoo, and 
on your safe deliverance from all the dangers and difficulties you have 
had to encounter on the way; but you must not think that your tribula- 
tions are ended. This day I shall not address you on doctrine, but con- 
cerning your temporal welfare. 

Inasmuch as you have come up here, essaying to keep the command- 
ments of God, I pronounce the blessings of heaven and earth upon you; 
and inasmuch as you will follow counsel, act wisely and do right, these 
blessings shall rest upon you so far as I have power with God to seal 
them upon you. 



A.D. 1843 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 355 

I am your servant, and it is only through the Holy Ghost that I can 
do you good. God is able to do His own work. 

We do not present ourselves before you as anything but your humble 
servants, willing to spend and be spent in your service; and therefore 
we shall dwell upon your temporal welfare on this occasion. 

In the first place, where a crowd is flocking from all parts of the 
world, of different minds, religions, &c, there will be some who do not 
live up to the commandments; there will be some designing characters 
who would turn you aside and lead you astray. You may meet specu- 
lators who would get away jour property; therefore it is necessary that 
we should have an order here, and when emigrants arrive, instruct them 
concerning these things. If the heads of the Church have laid the 
foundation of this place, and have had the trouble of doing what has 
been done, are they not better qualified to tell you how to lay out your 
money than those who have had no interest in the work whatever? 

Some start [in faith] on the revelations to come here. Before they 
arrive, they get turned away, or meet with speculators who get their 
money for land with bad titles, and lose all their property; then they 
come and make their complaints to us, when it is too late to do any- 
thing for them. The object of this meeting is to tell you these things; 
and then, if you will pursue the same course, you must bear the conse- 
quences of your own folly. 

There are several objects in your coming here. One object has been 
to bring you from sectarian bondage; another object was to bring you 
from national bondage to where you can be planted in a fertile soil. 
We have brought you into a free government, — not that you are to con- 
sider yourselves outlaws. By free government we do not mean that a 
man has a right to steal, rob, &c; but [a government that renders you] 
free from bondage, unjust taxation, oppression, and everything, if he 
conduct [himself] honestly and circumspectly with his neighbors, — free 
[also] in a spiritual capacity. This is the place that is appointed for 
the oracles of God to be revealed. If you have any darkness, you have 
only to ask, and the darkness is removed. It is not necessary that 
miracle should be wrought to remove darkness. Miracles are the fruits 
of faith. 

"How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? 
And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they 
preach except they be sent?" 

God may translate the scriptures by me if He chooses. Faith comes 
by hearing the word of God. If a man has not faith enough to do one 
thing, he may have faith to do another: if he cannot remove a moun- 
tain, he may heal the sick. Where faith is there will be some of the 
fruits: all gifts and power which were sent from heaven, were poured 
out on the heads of those who had faith. 



356 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

You must have a oneness of heart in all things, and then you shall be 
satisfied one way or the other before you have done with us. 

There are a great many old huts here, but they are all new; for our 
city is not six or seven hundred years old, as those you came from. 
This city is not four years old; it is only a three-year old last fall: there 
are very few old settlers. 

I got away from my keepers in Missouri; and when 1 came to these 
shores, I found four or five hundred families who had been driven out 
of Missouri without houses or food; and I went to work to get meat and 
flour to feed them. The people were not afraid to trust me, and I went 
to work and bought all this region of country, and I cried out, "Lord, 
what wilt Thou have me to do?" And the answer was, "Build up a 
city and call my Saints to this place; " and our hearts leap with joy to 
see you coming here. We have been praying for you all winter from 
the bottom of our hearts, and we are glad to see you. We are poor, 
and cannot do by you as we.would; but we will do for you all we can. 
It is not expected that all of you can locate -in the city. There are 
some who have money and who will build and hire others. Those who 
cannot purchase lots can go out into the country; the farmers want 
your labor. No industrious man need suffer in this land. The claims 
of the poor on us are such that we have claim on your good feelings, 
for your money to help the poor; and the Church debts also have their 
demands to save the credit of the Church. This credit has been ob- 
tained to help the poor and keep them from starvation, &c. Those who 
purchase Church land and pay for it, this shall be their sacrifice. 

Men of considerable means who were robbed of everything in the 
state of Missouri, are laboring in this city for a morsel of bread; and 
there are those who must have starved, but for the providence of God 
through me. We can leat all our competitors in lands, price and 
everything; we have the highest prices and best lands, and do the most 
good with the money we get. Our system is a real smut machine, a 
bolting machine; and all the shorts, bran and smut runs away, and all 
the flour remains with us. Suppose I sell you land for ten dollars an 
acre, and I gave three, four or five dollars per acre; then some persons 
may cry out, "You are speculating.'' Yes. I will tell how: I buy 
other lands and give them to the widow and the fatherless. If the spec- 
ulators run against me, they run against the buckler of Jehovah. God 
did not send me up as he did Joshua- In the former days God sent 
His servants to fight; but in the last days, He has i->romised to fight the 
battle Himself. God will deal with you Himself, and I will bless or 
curse you as you behave yourselves. I speak to you as one having 
authority, that you may know when it comes, and that you may have 
faith and know that God has sent me. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 357 

Some persons may perhaps inquire which is the most healthful loca- 
tion. I will tell you. The lower part of the town is most healthful. In 
the upper part of the town are the merchants, who will say that I am 
partial, &c; but the lower part of the town is much the most healthful; 
and I tell it you in the name of the Lord. I have been out in all parts 
of the city, and at all hours of the night to learn these things. The 
doctors in this region don't know much; and the lawyers, wheu I speak 
about them, begin to say, "We will denounce you on the stand." But 
they don't come up; and I take the liberty to say what I have a mind 
to about them. Doctors won't tell you where to go to be well; they 
want to kill or cure you, to get your money. Calomel doctors will 
give you calomel to cure a sliver in the big toe ; and they do not stop to 
know whether the stomach is empty or not; and calomel on an empty 
stomach will kill the patient. And the lobelia doctors will do the same. 
Point me out a patient and I will tell you whether calomel or lobelia will 
kill him or not, if you give it. 

The Mississippi water is more healthful to drink than the spring 
water, but you had better dig wells from fifteen to thirty feet deep, and 
then the water will be wholesome, There are many sloughs on the 
islands from whence miasma arises in the summer and is blown over 
the upper part of the city; but it does*not extend over the lower part 
of the city. All those persons who have not been accustomed to living 
on a river or lake, or large pond of water, I do not want to stay on the 
banks of the river. Get away to the lower part of the city, or back to 
the hill where you can get good well water. If you feel any inconven- 
ience, take some mild physic two or three times, and follow that up with 
some good bitters. If you cannot get anything else, take a little salts 
and cayenne pepper. If you cannot get salts, take ipecacuanha, or 
gnaw down a butternut tree, or use boneset or horehound. 

Those who have money, come to me, and I will let you have lands; 
and those who have no money, if they will look as well as I do, I will 
give them advice that will do them good. I bless you in the name of 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Hyrum Smith made some remarks concerning the prophets. Every 
report in circulation not congenial to good understanding is false — 
false as the dark regions of hell. . 

Closed by singing and prayer. 

After meeting, many of the Saints repaired to the 
landing at the Nauvoo House. The steamer, Maid of 
Ioiva, arrived from Keokuk, where it went last night 
after, the freight which it had left to enable it to get over 
the rapids. 



358 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

I was among them until about three o'clock. When 
the boat left, I walked home with Brother Kimball. 

Eighteen vessels wrecked on the Irish coast by the 
easterly winds. 

The gunpowder mills at Waltham- Abbey, England, 
exploded, killing seven persons. 

The Siamese twins, Chang and Eng, married the two 
sisters, Sarah and Adelaide Yates, of Wilkes county, 
North Carolina. 

Friday, 14. — Rode out to my farm and to the prairie 
with some of the emigrants; sold twenty acres of land; 
and when I was again riding out in the evening, broke 
the carriage on the side hill, when we all returned home 
on foot. 

I give the following speech, entire, copied from the 
National Intelligencer, as a specimen of the way the seed 
of Joseph are being "wasted before the Gentiles." 

Speech of Colonel Cobb, Head Mingo of the Choctaios, East of the 
Mississippi, in Beply to the Agent of the U. S. 

Brother: — We have heard you talk as from the lips of our father, 
the great white chief at Washington, and my people have called upon 
me to speak to you. The red man has no books; and when he wishes 
to make known his views like his fathers before him he speaks from his 
mouth. He is afraid of writing. When he speaks he knows what he 
says. The Great Spirit hears him. Writing is the invention of the 
pale faces; it gives birth to error and to feuds. The Great Spirit talks. 
We hear him in the thunder, in the rushing winds and the mighty 
waters. But he never writes. 

Brother: When you were young, we were strong. We fought by your 
side, but our arms are now broken. You have grown large. My people 
have become small. 

Brother: My voice is weak: you can scarcely hear me. It is not 
the shout of a warrior, but the wail of an infant. I have lost it in 
mourning for the misfortunes of my people. These are their graves, 
and in those aged pines you hear the ghosts of the departed. Their 
ashes are here, and we have been left to protect them. Our warriors 
are nearly all gone to the far country west; but here are our dead. 
Shall we go, too, and give their bones to the wolves? 

Brother: Two sleeps have passed since we heard you talk. We have 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 359 

thought apon it. You ask us to leave our country, and tell us it is our 
father's wish. We would not desire to displease our father. We 
respect him, and you, his child. But the Choctaw always thinks. We 
want time to answer. 

Brother: Our hearts are full. Twelve winters ago our chiefs sold our 
country. Every warrior that you see here was opposed to the treaty. 
If the dead could have been counted, it would nerer have been made; 
but, alas! though they stood around, they could not be seen or heard. 
Their tears came in the rain drops, and their voices in the wailing wind. 
But the pale face knew it not, and our land was taken away. 

Brother: We do not now complain. The Choctaw suffers, but he 
never weeps. You have the strong arm, and we cannot resist. But 
the pale face worships the Great Spirit. So does the red man. The 
Great Spirit loves truth. When you took our country you promised us 
land. There is your promise in the book. Twelve times have the 
trees dropped their leaves, and yet we have received no land. Our 
houses have been taken from us. The white man's plough turns up 
the bones of our fathers. We dare not kindle up our fires; and yet you 
said we might remain, and you would give us land. 

Brother: Is this truth? But we believe now our great father knows 
our condition, he will listen to us. We are as mourning orphans in our 
country; but our father will take us by the hand. When he fulfills his 
promise, we will answer his talk. He means well. We know it. But 
we cannot think now. Grief has made children of us. When our 
business is settled, we shall be men again, and talk to our great father 
about what he has promised. 

Brother: You stand in the moccasins of a great chief; you speak 
the words of a mighty nation, and your talk was long. My people are 
small. Their shadow scarcely reaches to your knee. They are scattered 
and gone. When I shout, I hear my voice in the depths of the woods, 
but no answering shouts come back. My words, therefore, are few. I 
have nothing more to say, but to tell what I have said to the tall chief 
of the pale faces, whose brother (William Tyler, of Virginia, brother 
to the president of the United States, recently appointed one of the 
Choctaw commissioners) stands by your side. 



360 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 



CHAPTER XIX. 

THE PROPHET ON THE RESURRECTION — DIRECTIONS GIVEN AS 
TO THE LABORS OF THE TWELVE ET AL. — THE KINDER- 
HOOK PLATES — FIRST ISSUE OF "THE NAUVOO NEIGH- 
BOR" — NEW MISSION APPOINTMENTS. 

Saturday, April 15, 1843. — Attended court-martial 
which was held at niy house. 

In the evening rode out in my carriage with Emma. 

A conference was held at Vinalhaven, Fox Island, 
Maine, when four branches, consisting of one hundred 
and twenty-eight members, four elders, five priests, six 
teachers and three deacons, were represented. Quite a 
number have been recently baptized. 

Sunday, 16 — Meeting at the Temple at 10 a. m. I 
read Brother Parley P. Pratt's letter to the editor of 
the Times and Seasons, concerning the death of Lorenzo 
Dow Barnes, who died in England, December 20, 1842; 
and I remarked that I read it because it was so appropri- 
ate to all who had died in the faith. [The following was 
reported by W. Richards and W. Woodruff.] 

Remarks of the Prophet on the Death of Lorenzo D. Barnes — Ihe Resur- 

tion. 

Almost all who have fallen in these last days in the Church have fal- 
len in a strange land. This is a strange land to those who have come 
from a distance. 

We should cultivate sympathy for the afflicted among us. If there is 
a place on earth where men should cultivate the spirit and pour in the 
oil and wine in the bosoms of the afflicted, it is in this place; and this 
spirit is manifest here; and although a stranger and afflicted when he 
arrives, he finds a brother and a friend ready to administer to his 
necessities. 



AA). 1843| HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 361 

I would esteem it one of the greatest blessings, if I am to be afflicted 
in this world to have my lot cast where I can find brothers and friends 
all around me. But this is not the thing I referred to: it is to have the 
privilege of having our dead buried on the land where God has appointed 
to gather His Saints together, and where there will be none but Saints, 
where thev may have the privilege of laying their bodies where the Son 
of Man will make His appearance, and where they may hear the sound 
of the trump that shall call them forth to behold Hira, that in the morn 
of the resurrection they may come forth in a body, and come up out of 
their graves and strike hands immediately in eternal glory and felicity, 
rather than be scattered thousands of miles apart. There is something 
good and sacred to me in this thing. The place where a man is buried 
is sacred to me. This subject is made mention of in the Book of 
Mormon and other scriptures. Even to the aborigines of this land, the 
burying places of their fathers are more sacred than anything else. 

When I heard of the death of our beloved Brother Barnes, it would 
not have affected me so much, if I had the opportunity of burying him 
in the land of Zion. 

I believe those who have buried their friends here, their condi- 
tion is enviable. {Look at Jacob and Joseph in Egypt, how they 
required their friends to bury them in the tomb of their fathers. See 
the expense which attended the embalming and the going up of the 
great company to the burial. 

It has always been considered a great calamity not to obtain an hon- 
orable burial: and one of the greatest curses the ancient prophets could 
put on any man, was that he should go without a buna)/ 

I have said, Father, I desire to die here among the Saints. But if 
this is not Thy will, and I go hence and die, wilt thou find some kind 
friend to bring my body back, and gather my friends who have fallen 
in foreign lands, and bring them up hither, that we may all lie to- 
gether. 

I will tell you what I want. If tomorrow I shall be called to lie in 
yonder tomb, in the morning of the resurrection let me strike hands 
with my father, and cry, ''My father," and he will say, "My son, my 
son," as soon as the rock rends and before we come oat of our graves. 

And may we contemplate these things so? Yes, if we learn how to 
live and how to die. When we lie down we contemplate how we may 
rise in the morning; and it is pleasing for friends to lie down together, 
locked in the arms of love, to sleep and wake in each other's embrace 
and renew their conversation. 

Would you think it strange if I relate what I have seen in vision in 
relation to this interesting theme 1 ? Those who have died in Jesus Christ 
may expect to enter into all that fruition of joy when they come forth, 
which they possessed or anticipated here. 



362 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 18*3 

80 plain was the vision, that I actually saw men, before they had 
ascended from the tomb, as though they were getting up slowly. They 
took each other by the hand and said to each other, "My father, my 
son, my mother, my daughter, my brother, my sister." And when the 
voice calls for the dead to arise, suppose I am laid by the side of my 
father, what would be the first joy of my heart? To meet my father, 
my mother, my brother, my sister; and when they are by my side, I 
embrace them and they me. 

It is my meditation all the day, and more than my meat and drink, 
to know how I shall make the Saints of God comprehend the visions 
that roll like an overflowing surge before my mind. 

Oh! how I would delight to bring before you things which you never 
thought of! But poverty and the cares of the world prevent. But I 
am glad I nave the privilege of communicating to you some things 
which, if grasped closely, will be a help to you when earthquakes bellow, 
the clouds gather, the lightnings flash, and the storms are ready to 
burst upon you like peals of thunder. Lay hold of these things and let 
not your knees or joints tremble, nor your hearts faint; and then what 
can earthquakes, wars and tornadoes do? Nothing. All your losses 
will be made up to you in the resurrection, provided you continue 
faithful. By the vision of the Almighty I have seen it. 

More painful to me are the thoughts of annihilation than death. If I 
have no expectation of seeing my father, mother, brothers, sisters and 
friends again, my heart would burst in a moment, and I should go down 
to my grave. 

The expectation of seeing my friends in the morning of the resur- 
rection cheers my soul and makes me bear up against the evils of life. 
It is like their taking a long journey, and on their return we meet them 
with increased joy. 

God has revealed His Son from the heavens and the doctrine of the 
resurrection also; and we have a knowledge that those we bury here 
God will bring up again, clothed upon and quickened by the Spirit of 
the great God; and what mattereth it whether we lay them down, or we 
lay down with them, when we can keep them no longer? Let these 
truths sink down in our hearts, that we may even here begin to enjoy 
that which shall be in full hereafter. 

Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna to Almighty God, that rays of light begin 
to burst forth upon us even now. I cannot find words in which to 
express myself. I am not learned, but I have as good feelings as any 
man. 

that I had the language of the archangel to express my feelings 
once to my friends! But I never expect to in this life. When others 
rejoice, I rejoice; when they mourn, I mourn. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 363 

To Marcellus Bates let me administer comfor*. You shall soon have 
the company of your companion in a world of glory, and the friends of 
Brother Barnes and all the Saints who are mourning. This has been 
a warning: voice to us all to be sober and diligent and lay aside mirth^ 
vanity and folly, and to be prepared to die tomorrow. [President Smith 
preached about two hours] 

Erastus Snow said that he was a boarder with President Joseph Smith 
the first week he was in Nauvoo: he helped to carry the chain for the 
surveyor, and helped to lay out the first city lot. 

President Joseph Smith said: "As president of this house, I forbid 
any man leaving just as we are going to close the meeting. He is no gen- 
tleman who will do it. I don't care who does it, even if it were the king 
of England. I forbid it. 

Dismissed with singing, and prayer by John Taylor. 

I receiver! a letter from the postoffice, of which the fol- 
lowing is a copy: 

A Canard. 

Washington, D. C, March 31, 1841. 
Sir: — Yon stand accused of high treason. You will deliver yourself 
up to the governor at Springfield, Illinois, in order to be tried before 
the Supreme Court of the United States next term. 

The governor of Illinois will be directed to take you in custody, if you 
will not deliver yourself up. 

The president will issue a proclamation against you, if you obey not 
this order by May 1, 1S43. 

Respectfully yours, 

Hugh L. Legare, 

Attorney- General . 
Joseph Smith, Esq. 

This letter was superscribed, "By order of J. Tyler, 
President of the United States." 

I insert this letter in my history to show a specimen 
of the many despicable falsehoods resorted to by the 
enemies of the truth to annoy me and my friends. 

Monday, 17. — Rain last night, green grass begins to 
appear. 

Walked out in the city with William Clayton. Visited 
Elder John Taylor, and gave him some instructions about 



364 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1843 

the letter purporting to come from Attorney-General 
Legare, also called on Samuel Bennett in rela- 

Sundrv Move- . , i t n • i n , n 

ments'of the tion to the house he lived in, above the. old 
burying ground; returned home, and con- 
versed with Elder Erastus Snow. Received from Parley 
P. Pratt fifty gold sovereigns for the Temple and Nauvoo 
House; also received eighty-seven pounds from the Eng- 
lish brethren for land. At half-past five p. m., called at 
the printing office for a short time, when I returned home 
and listened to the reading of a synopsis of my sermon of 
last Sabbath. 

Advices from Guadeloupe state that up to the 25th of 
March forty-five hundred bodies had been dug out of the 
ruins of Point- a-Pitre, and twenty-two hundred of the 
wounded by the late earthquake were in the hospital at 
Basse- Terre, and that five other shocks had been subse- 
quently felt. 

Elder E. M. Webb writes that he has been laboring 
with success in several counties in Michigan, when he 
came to Comstock, in Kalamazoo county, Dr. 
nett Lectur- John C. Bennett was lecturing in Kalama- 
zoo, the shire town, and was told that there 
was a Mormon Elder in the neighborhood. Bennett said, 
''That is one of Joe Smith's destroying angels, who is 
come to kill me;" and he left in such haste that he forgot 
to pay his tavern bill, also the poor Presbyterians for 
lighting and wanning the house for him. Elder Webb 
commenced preaching there, baptized twenty-four and 
organized a branch. 

One hundred barrels, or ten thousand pounds of gun- 
powder were deposited in fifteen separate chambers and 
simultaneously fired, with complete success, in the 
Abbot's Cliff, Dover, England. 

Tuesday , 18. — Signed an appointment to John F. 
Cowan of Shokoquon, as one of my aides-de-camp, as a 
lieutenant-general of the Nauvoo Legion, and conversed 
with him. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 3G5 

Rode out on the prairie. Sold one hundred and thirty 
acres of land to the English brethren and took a bond 
from John T. Barnett for two lots. 

Signed a transcript of the mayor's docket, Thompson 
vs. Dixon. 

In the evening had a talk with three Indian chiefs, 
who had come as a delegation from the Potta- „. . „ 

i , . , p , . Visit Potta- 

watamie tribe, who complained of having watamie 
their cattle, horses, &c, stolen. They were 
much troubled, and wanted to know what they should 
do. They had borne their grievances patiently. 

The quorum of the Twelve met in my office. 

Wednesay , 19. — Went to the office at nine o'clock, to 
attend a municipal court in case of Dana vs. Dr. Brink, 
on appeal from mayor's decision of March 10. 

Mayor' s Court at Nauvoo. 

At half past nine called to order and issued an attachment against 
William Marks, George W. Harris, Orson Spencer, Gustavus Hills, 
Daniel H. Wells, Hiram Kimball, and Newel K. Whitney, associate- 
justices, to bring them before the court forthwith to answer for con- 
tempt. Aldermen Harris, Spencer, Hills and Whitney appeared, and 
were excused upon condition of their paying the costs of attachment 
and marshal's fees. Daniel H. Wells was excused on account of 
absence from the city. 

Half-past twelve p. m. court opened, original papers being called 
for. The clerk (James Sloan) inquired if the execution would issue 
from the court. "Sit dowu, n said the mayor, "and attend to your own 
business. If anything is wanted you will be told time enough.'' Coun- 
sel for Brink moved that the case be dismissed for want of jurisdiction 
in the court below. Much law was quoted on both sides. 

The court decided that the mayor had jurisdiction but the municipal 
court had not, being authorized only by the charter to try appeals in 
cases arising under the ordinances of the city. The case arose under 
the statutes of Illinois, and should have been appealed directly to the 
Circuit Court, and dismissed the appeal accordingly; and then stated 
that a legal bond for appeal was not presented till after the twenty 
days had expired, and therefore it could not now be legally appealed to 
the Circuit Court. 

After adjournment, while conversing with Dr. Brink and Mr. Marr, I 



3(30 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |A.I). 1843 

told them I had been called to thousands of cases in sickness, and I 
have never failed in administering comfort where the patient has thrown 
himself unreservedly on me, and the reason is that I never prescribed 
anything that would injure the patient, if it did him no good. 

I have lost a father, brother, and child, because in my anxiety I 
depended more on the judgment of other men than my own, while I 
have raised up others who were lower than they were. By-the-by, I 
will say that that man, (pointing to Levi Richards) is the best physician 
I have ever been acquainted with. People will seldom die of disease, 
provided we know it seasonably, and treat it mildly, patiently and per- 
severiugly, and do not use harsh means. 

It is like the Irishman's digging down the mountain. He does not 
put his shoulder to it to push it over, but puts it in his wheelbarrow, 
and carries it away day after day, and perseveres in it until the whole 
mountain is removed. So we should persevere in the use of simple 
remedies, and not push against the constitution of the patient, day 
after day; and the disease will be removed and the patient saved. It 
is better to save the life of a man than to raise one from the dead. 

At three p. m. I met with Brigham Young, William Smith, Parley P. 
Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, Geo. A. Smith, 
and Willard Richards, of the quorum of the Twelve, iu my office, and 
told them to go in the name of the Lord God of Israel, and tell Lucien 
Woodworth to put the hauds on the Nauvoo House, and begin the work, 
and be patient till means can be provided. 

Call on the inhabitants of Nauvoo, and get them to bring in their 
means, then go to La Harpe and serve them the same. Thus com- 
mence your career, "and never stand still the Master appeal's:" for it 
is necessary the house should be built. Out of the stock that is handed 
to me, you shall receive as you have need; for the laborer is worthy of 
his hire. 

I hereby command the hands to go to work on the house. Tell 
Woodworth to put them on and he shall be backed up in it. You must 
get cash, property, lands, horses, cattle, flour, corn, wheat, &c. The 
grain can be ground in this place. 

If you can get hands onto the Nauvoo House, it will give such an im- 
petus to the work, that it will take all the devils out of hell to stop it. 

Let the Twelve Apostles keep together. You will do more good to 
keep together, not travel together all the time, but meet in conference 
from place to place, and associate together, and not be found long 
apart from each other. Then travel from here to Maine, till you make 
a perfect highway for the Saints. 

It is better for you to be together; for it is difficult for a man to have 
strength of lungs and health to be instant in season and out of season, 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 367 

under all circumstances; and you can assist each other. And when 
you go to spend a day or two in a place, you will find the people will 
gather together in great companies. If twelve men cannot build that 
house, they are poor tools. 

President Young asked if any of the Twelve should go to England. 

I replied — No! I don't want the Twelve to go to England this year. I 
have sent them to England, and they have broken the ice, and done 
well. And now I want to send some of the elders and try them. 

Lorenzo Snow may stay at home till he gets rested. The Twelve 
must travel to save their lives. I feel all the veins and strata necessary 
for the Twelve to move in to save their lives. 

You can never make anything out of Benjamin Winchester if you 
take him out of the channel he wants to be in. Send Samuel James to 
England, thus saith the Lord; also Reuben Hedlock; he ought to be a 
heavenly messenger wherever he goes. You need not be in a hurry. 
Send these two now; and when you think of some others, send them. 

John Taylor, I believe you can do more good in the editorial depart- 
ment than preaching. You can write for thousands to read; while you 
can preach to but a few at a time. We have no one else we can trust 
the paper with, and hardly with you, for you suffer the paper to come 
out with so many mistakes. 

Parley may stay at home and build his house. 

Brother George A. Smith, I don't know how I can help him to a 
living, but to let him go and preach. If he will go, his lungs will hold 
out. The Lord will give him a good pair of lungs yet. 

Wilford Woodruff can be spared from the printing office. If you both 
stay, you will disagree. 1 want Orson Pratt should go. 

Brother Brigham asked if he should go. Yes, go. 

I want John E. Page to be called away from Pittsburg, and a good 
elder sent in his place. If he stays there much longer, he will get so as 
to sleep with his granny, he is so self-righteous. When he asked to go 
back there, he was going to tear up all Pittsburg; and he cannot even 
get money enough to pay postage on his letters, or come and make us 
a visit. 

Orson Hyde can go and travel; and I want you all to meet in Boston. 

1 want Elder Willard Richards to continue in the History at present. 
Perhaps he will have to travel some to save his life. The History is 
going out by little and little, in the papers, and cutting its way; so 
that, when it is completed, it will not raise a persecution against us. 

When Lyman Wight comes home from Kirtland, I intend to send him 
right back again. 

William Smith is going East with his sick wife. 

Brother Kimball will also travel. 



• 



J 



368 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

I want you to cast up a highway for the Saints from here to Maine. 

Don't be scared about the Temple. Don't say anything against it, 
but make all men know that your mission is to build up the Nauvoo 
Hp,use. 

It is not necessary that Jedediah .and Joshua Grant should be or- 
dained High Priests in order to preside. They are too young. They 
have got into Zebedee Coltrin's habit of clipping: half their words, and 
I intend to break them of it. If a high priest comes along, and goes to 
snub either of them in their presidency, because they are Seventies, let 
them knock the man's teeth down his throat — I mean spiritually. You 
i shall make a mighty wake as you go. 

William Clayton, tell the Temple committee to put hands enough on 
that house (on the diagonal corner from the brick store), and finish it 
right off. The Lord hath need of other houses as well as a Temple. 

I can sell $10,000 worth of property this spring, I will meet you at 
any conference in Maine, or any conference where you are, and stay as 
long as it is wisdom. 

Take Jacob Zundall and Frederick H. Moeser, and tell them never 
to drink a drop of ale, wine, or any spirit, only that which flows right 
out from the presence of God; and send them to Germany; and when 
you meet with an Arab, send him to Arabia; when you find an Italian, 
send him to Italy; and a Frenchman, to France; or an Indiau, that is 
suitable, send him among the Indians. Send them to the different places 
where they belong. Send somebody to Central America and to all 
Spanish America; and don't let a single corner of the earth go without 
a mission. 

Write to Oliver Cowdery and ask him if he has not eaten husks long 
enough? If he is not almost ready to return, be clothed with robes of 
righteousness, and go up to Jerusalem? Orson Hyde hath need of him. 
(A letter was written accordingly.) 

I returned home about half-past four p.m. 

This evening located the site for a music hall on lot 4, 
block 67, on the corner of Woodruff and Young streets. 

By a certificate of William Smith, of this date, we learn 
that Elder Benjamin Winchester has recently published 
a synopsis of concordance to the scriptures. 

Thursday , 20.- — I went out with Brother Manhard to 
show him some lots, and settled with him; and afterwards 
heard read a proof sheet of the elders' conference. 

Elder Rigdon received a letter last Sunday, informing 



A.D 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 369 

him that the Nauvoo post office was abolished. He fool- 
ishly supposed it genuine, neglected his duty, Sidney Rig- 
and started for Carthage to learn more about don ' s Alarm * 
it, but was met by Mr. Hamilton, an old mail contractor, 
who satisfied him it was a hoax; and he returned home, 
and the mail arrived as usual today. 

Friday, 21. — I rode out in the city, and in the afternoon 
went to my farm. 

There was an officer's drill of the Nauvoo legion. 

Saturday, 22. — The cohorts of the legion were in exer- 
cise this day. My staff came out with me, and spent the 
day in riding, exercising, and organizing, and Nauvoo 
sitting in court-martial, to ascertain to what Le s ionDri11 
staff Robert D. Foster, Surgeon- General, Hugh McFall, 
Ad judant- General, and Daniel H. Wells, Commissary- 
General, belonged. 

Sunday, 23. — Nine to ten a. m. at home; heard read 
Truthiana, No. 6, also the minutes of special conference, 
which I revised. 

Special Conference. 

Eleven, a. m., meeting at the Temple* stand; Brigham Young, Parley 
P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Orson Hyde, George A. Smith, and Willard 
Richards present. 

Orson Hyde prayed. 

President Brigham Young preached on the subject of salvation, and 
the Twelve commenced their mission to build the Nauvoo House. For 
the salvation of the Church it was necessary that the public buildings 
should be erected, etc. 

Parley P. Pratt preached in the afternoon, showing the rapid progress 
of Nauvoo during the past three years. 

Peter Haws called for twenty-five hands to go with him to the Pine 
country, to get lumber for the Nauvoo House. 

President Brigham Young instructed the laborers on the Nauvoo House 
to commence next morning, even if they had to beg food of their neigh- 
bors to commence with; and requested families to board hands till 
means could be procured. 

Monday, 24. — In the morning I took my children a 
pleasure ride in the carriage.' 

At one p.m. President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kim- 

24 Vol.V. 



370 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. lA.D. 1843 

ball, Orson Hyde, John Taylor, George A. Smith, Wil- 
visit of the f or( i Woodruff, and Willard Richards met in 
Iu^i V sta t0 council in my office, and agreed to go to 
iowa. Augusta, Iowa, to spend the next Sabbath 

and devise means to secure the property which has been 
purchased of Moffat by the Nauvoo House trustees, and 
voted John Cairnes go on a mission to England ; Peter 
Haws and James Brown to Tuscaloosa, Alabama; that 
Elder Murray Seaman be instructed to return home im- 
mediately; and that Mr. Lucien Woodworth be respect- 
fully requested immediately to furnish the Twelve with a 
draft of the exterior and interior of the Nauvoo House. 

Prince Louis Napoleon, claimant of the imperial throne 
of France, writes from his prison at Ham to the Parisian 
journals — "I would prefer captivity on the French soil to 
freedom in exile.'' 

Tuesday, 25. — In the office in the morning, and heard 
read the proceedings of the Twelve Apostles yesterday. 

Lucius N. Scovil and other Masons came to see me con- 
cerning Henry Gr. Sherwood, when I was told that Grand 
Master G. M. Nye was dead, which caused the following 
remark : — 

Ihe Prophet's Remarks on G. M. Nye. 

When Nye was here trying to pull me by the nose and trample on 
me, I enquired of the Lord if I was to be led by the nose and cuffed 
about by such a man. I received for answer, "Wait a minute.' ' Nye is 
dead; and any man or Mason who attempts to ride me down and op- 
press me will run against the boss of Jehovah's buckler and will be 
quickly moved out of the way. Nye was a hypocritical Presbyterian 
preacher, and was known to have committed adultery in this city and 
violated his oath as a Master Mason. He started an opposition lodge 
on the hill, called the Nye Lodge; on which subject I said, they will do 
us all the injury they can; but let them go ahead, although it will re- 
sult in a division of the lodge. Nye, fearing the penalty of the city 
ordinances on adultery, speedily fled from Nauvoo, and soon after died 
suddenly in Iowa. 

At three-and-a-quarter p. m. rain fell in torrents, and 
wind blew strong from the north west. Several barns 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 371 

were blown down. So dark for fifteen minutes, could not 
see to write. Considerable hail fell. The creeks rose very 
high. The land covered with water. 

Wednesday, 26. — At home. Squally and cold weather. 

Received of Wilford Woodruff a deed of north half of 
lot 4, block 12, on Kimball's second addition, valued at 
$50 on tithing. 

Thursday, 27. — At eleven a. m. sat in mayor's court, 
when Jonathan Ford proved a stolen horse to be his. 

Visited at Brother Heber C. Kimball's with William 
Clayton. 
7 The Nye Lodge was installed on the hill. 

English state documents show an annual loss of 
£3,000,000 and 1,000 lives on the coast of Portsmouth, 
for want of harbors of refuge. 

Friday, 2S. — At home. 

Saturday, 29. — Rode out to the prairie with my brothers, 
William and Samuel, and John Topham, and apportioned 
a lot between Sister Mullholland and John Scott. 

Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Wilford 
Woodruff, George A. Smith, Joseph Young, and Peter 
Haws rode to Augusta, Iowa. 

Sunday, 30. — The brethren held a meeting at Augusta, 
and had a good time. About 200 Saints were present. 
Augusta is a flourishing little town. There are three saw 
mills and two flour mills, having excellent water privileges. 

At ten a. m. a trial commenced before the First Presi- 
dency, Graham Coltrin v. Anson Matthews, being an ap- 
peal from the High Council on complaint — 

Minutes of a High Council Meeting — Coltrin vs. Matthews. 

First, for a failure in refusing to perform according' to contract re- 
specting the sale of a piece of land by him [Matthews] sold to me [Col- 
trin]. Second for transferring his [Matthews] property in a way to 
enable him to bid defiance to the result and force of law, and to evade the 
aforesaid contracts, thereby wronging me [Coltrin] out of my just 
claim to the same; and also for lying, etc. 

Witnesses for plaintiff: — Henry G. Sherwood, N. G. Blodgett, Zebe- 
dee Coltrin, Father Coltrin. 



372 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Witnesses for defense — Two affidavits of George Reads, Mrs. Mat- 
thews, Brother Browett, Samuel Thompson, Richard Slater. 
Decision of the Council is that the charges are not sustained/' 

Monday , May, 1. — I rode out with Lucien Wood worth, 
and paid him £20 for the Nauvoo House, which I borrowed 
of William Allen. 

I insert fac-similes of the six brass plates found near 
Kinderhook, in Pike county, Illinois, on April 23, by Mr. 
comment of Robert Wiley and others, while excavating a 
the Prophet large mound. They found a skeleton about 
derhook six feet from the surface of the earth, which 

Plates 

must have stood nine feet high. The plates 
were found on the breast of the skeleton and were covered 
on both sides with ancient characters. 

I have translated a portion of them, and find they con- 
tain the history of the person with whom they were found. 
He was a descendant of Ham, through the loins of Pha- 
raoh, king of Egypt, and that he received his kingdom 
from the Ruler of heaven and earth. 

I quote the following editorial from the Times and 
Seasons: — 

ANCIENT RECORDS. 

Circumstances are daily transpiring which give additional testimony 
to the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. A few years ago, although 
supported by indubitable, unimpeachable testimony, it was looked upou 
in the same light by the world in general, and by the religious world in 
particular, as the expedition of Columbus to this continent was by the 
different courts that he visited, and laid his project before. The literati 
looked upon his expedition as wild and visionary, they suspected very 
much the integrity of his pretensions, and looked upon him — to say the 
least — as a fool, for entertaining such wild and visionary views. The 
royal courts aided by geographers, thought it was impossible that an- 
other continent should or could exist; and they were assisted in their 
views by the learned clergy, who, to put the matter beyond all doubt, 
stated that it was contrary to Scripture; that the apostles preached to 
all the world, and that as they did not come to America, it was impos- 
sible that there should be any such place. Thus at variance with the 
opinions of the great, in opposition to science and religion, he set sail, 
and actually came to America; it was no dream, no fiction; but a solid 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 373 

reality; and however unphilosophical and infidel the notion might be, 
men had to believe it; and it was soon found out that it would agree 
both with religion and philosophy. 

So when the Book of Mormon first made its appearance among men, 
it was looked upon by many as a wild speculation, and that it was dan- 
gerous to the interest and happiness of the religious world. But when 
it was found to teach virtue, honesty, integrity, and pure religion, this 
objection was laid aside as being untenable. 

We were then told that the inhabitants of this continent were and 
always had been a rude, barbarous race, uncouth, unlettered, and 
without civilization. But when they were told of the various relics that 
have been found indicative of civilization, intelligence, and learning, — 
when they were told of the wealth architecture, and splendor of ancient 
Mexico, — when recent developments proved beyond a doubt that there 
are ancient ruins in Central America, which, in point of magnificence, 
beauty, strength, and architectural design, vie with any of the most 
splendid ruins on the Asiatic Continent, — when they could trace the fine 
delineations of the sculptor's chisel on the beautiful statue, the mysteri- 
ous hieroglyphic, and the unknown character, they began to believe 
that a wise, powerful, intelligent, and scientific race had inhabited this 
continent; but still it was improbable — nay almost impossible, notwith- 
standing the testimony of history to the contrary, that anything like 
plates could have been used anciently, particularly among this people. 

The following letter and certificate will perhaps have a tendency to 
convince the sceptical that such things have been used and that even 
the obnoxious Book of Mormon may be true. And as the people 
in Columbus' day were obliged to believe that there was such a place as 
America, so will the people in this day be obliged to believe, however 
reluctantly, that there may have been such plates as those from which 
the Book of Mormon was translated. 

Mr. Smith has had those plates, what his opinion concerning them is, 
we have not yet ascertained. The gentleman that owns them has taken 
them away, or we should have given a fac-simile of the plates and char- 
acters in this number. We are informed however, that he purposes re- 
turning with them for translation, if so, we may be able yet to furnish 
our readers with it. 

It will be seen by the annexed statement of the Quincy Whig, that 
there are more dreamers and money-diggers than Joseph Smith in the 
world; and the worthy editor is obliged to acknowledge that this circum- 
stance will go a good way to prove the authenticity of the Book of Mor- 
mon. He further states that "if Joseph Smith can decipher the hiero- 
glyphics on the plates, he will do more towards throwing light on the 
early history of this continent than any man living." We think that he 
has done that already in translating and publishing the Book of Mor* 



374 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



[A.D. 1843 



mem, and would advise the gentleman and all interested to read for 
themselves and understand. We have no doubt, however, but Mr. 
Smith will be able to translate them. 

Jo the Editor oj the limes and Seasons. 

On the 16th of April last, a respectable merchant, by the name of 
Robert Wiley, commenced digging in a large mound near this place; he 
excavated to the depth of ten feet and came to rock. About that time 
the rain began to fall, and he abandoned the work. 





fXM 











A.D. 1843] 



HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 



375 



On the 23rd, he and quite a number of the citizens, with myself, re- 
paired to the mound; and after making ample opening, we found plenty 
of rock, the most of which appeared as though it had been strongly 
burned; and after removing full two feet of said rock, we found plenty 
of charcoal and ashes; also human bones that appeared as though they 
had been burned; and near the encephalon a bundle was found that con- 
sisted of six plates of brass of a bell shape, each having a hole near the 
small end, and a ring through them all, and clasped with two clasps. 
The rings and clasps appeared to be irou very much oxydated. The 










nv 




376 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



[A. D. 1843 



plates appeared first to be copper, and had the appearance of being 
covered with characters. 

It was agreed by the company that I should cleanse the plates. Ac- 
cordingly I took them to my house, washed them with soap and water 
and a woolen cloth; but, finding them not yet cleansed, I treated them 
with dilute sulphuric acid, which made them perfectly clean, on which 
it appeared that they were completely covered with hieroglyphics that 
none as yet have been able to read. 





^■«C|¥J ■'-# 



it UK* 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 377 

Wishing that the world might know the hidden things as fast as they 
come to light, I was induced to state the facts, hoping that you would 
give it an insertion in your excellent paper; for we all feel anxious to 
know the true meaning of the plates, and publishing the facts might 
lead to the true translation. 

They were, found, I judged, more than twelve feet below the surface 
of the top of the mound. 

I am, most respectfully, a citizen of Kinderhook, 

W. P. Harris, M. D. 

We, the citizens of Kinderhook, whose names are annexed, do certify 
and declare that on the 23rd of April, 1843, while excavating a large 
mound in this vicinity, Mr. R. Wiley took from said monud six brass 
plates of a bell shape, covered with ancient characters. Said plates 
were very much oxydated. The bands and rings on said plates moul- 
dered into dust on a slight pressure. 

Robert Wiley, W. Longnecker, Geo. Deckenson, 

Fayette Grubb, W. Fugate. W. P. Harris, 

J. R. Sharp, G. W. F. Ward, Ira S. Curtis, 

(From the Quincy Whig.) 
singular discovery.— material for another mormon book. 

A Mr. J. Roberts of Pike County, called upon us last Monday with a 
written description of a discovery which was recently made near Kind- 
erhook, in that county. We have not room for his communication at 
length, and will give so much of a summary of it, as will enable the 
reader to form a pretiy correct opinion of the discovery made. 

It appeared that a young man by the name of Wilev, a resident in 
Kinderhook,dreamed three nights in succession, that in a certain monnd 
in the vicinity, there were treasures concealed. Impressed with the 
strange occurrence of dreaming the same dream three nights in succes- 
sion, he came to the conclusion to satisfy his mind by digging into the 
mound. For fear of being laughed at, if he made others acquainted with 
his design he went by himself and labored diligently one day in pursuit 
of the supposed treasure, by sinking a hole in the centre of a mound. 

Finding it quite laborious, he invited others to assist him. A com- 
pany of ten or twelve repaired to the mound and assisted in digging out 
the shaft commenced by Wiley. After penetrating the mound about 
eleven feet, they came to a bed of limestone that had been subjected to 
the action of fire. They removed the stones, which were small and easy 
to handle, to the depth of two feet more, when they found six brass 
plates, secured and fastened together by two iron wires, but which were 
so decayed that they readily crumbled to dust upon being handled. 

The plates were so completely covered with rust as almost to obliter 



378 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D, 1845 

ate the characters inscribed upon them; but, aiter undergoing a chemi- 
cal process, the inscriptions were brought out plain and distinct. 

There were six plates, four inches in length, one inch and three- 
quarters wide at the top, and two inches and three-quarters wide at the 
bottom, flaring out to points. There are four lines of characters or 
hieroglyphics on each. On one side of the plates are parallel lines 
running lengthways. 

By whom these plates were deposited there must ever remain a secret, 
unless some one skilled in deciphering hieroglyphics may be found to 
unravel the mystery. Some pretend to say that Smith, the Mormon 
leader, has the ability to read them. If he has, he will confer a great 
favor on the public by removing the mystery which hangs over them. 
A person present when the plates were found remarked that it would 
go to prove the authenticity of the Book of Mormon, which it undoubt- 
edly will. 

In the place where these plates were deposited were also found human 
bones in the last stage of decomposition. There were but few bones 
found; and it is believed that it was but the burial-place of a person or 
family of distinction in ages long gone by, and that these plates contain 
the history of the times, or of a people that existed far, far beyond the 
memory of the present race. But we will not conjecture anything about 
this wonderful discovery, as it is one which the plates alone can reveal. 

The plates above alluded to were exhibited in this city last week, and 
are now, we understand, in Nauvoo, subject to the inspection of the 
Mormon Prophet. The public curiosity is greatly excited; and if Smith 
can decipher the hieroglyphics on the plates, he will do more towards 
throwing light on the early history of this continent than any man now 
living.* 

* It is proper here to call attention to the fact that the genuineness of this dis- 
covery of the Kinderhook plates is questioned by some anti-Mormon writers, among 
them Professor William A. Linn in his late work The Story of Mormonism. In 
which, after citing the fact that both John Hyde and T. B. H. Stenhouse — both 
anti-Mormon authors — accept the genuineness of the discovery of the Kinderhook 
plates, which led the first iu his Mormonism to insist that "Smith did have plates 
of some kind," in connection with the putting forth of the Book of Mormon; and 
the second to say of the Kinderhook plates that they were "actually and unques- 
tionably discovered by one Mr. R. Wiley" — he says: 

"But the true story of the Kinderhook plates was disclosed by an affidavit made 
by W. Fugate of Mound Station, Brown county, Illinois, befoie Jay Brown, justice 
of the peace, on June 30, 1879. In this he stated that the plates were a humbug, 
gotten up by Robert Wiley, Bridge Whitton, and myself. Whitton (who was a 
blacksmith) cut the plates out of some pieces of copper; Wiley aud I made the 
hieroglyphics by making impressions on beeswax and filling them with acid, old 
iron and lead, and bound them with a piece of hoop iron, covering them completely 
with the rust. He describes the burial of the plates and their digging up, among 
the spectators of the latter being two Mormon Elders, Marsh and Sharp. Sharp 
declared that the Lord had directed them to witness the digging. The plates were 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 379 

Slavery was this day abolished in every part of the Brit- 
ish dominions in India, under the administration of Lord 
Ellenborough. 

Tuesday, 2. — Rode out in the forenoon. About three 
p. m., the Maid of Iowa arrived from St. Louis. I was 
on the bank of the river, awaiting the arrival of my wife, 
who returned with Lorin Walker. 

Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Wilford 
Woodruff, George A. Smith, and Joseph Young returned 
from Augusta, Iowa. 

John E. Page wrote me a letter, wanting to dispose of 
Church pi-operty and establish a printing press in Pitts- 
burg, on which I directed the Twelve to send him to 
Liberia, or some other place, in order to save him. 

About one p.m., the mate of the ship Yorkshire opened 

borrowed and shown to Smith, and were finally given to one Professor McDowell of 
St. Louis, for his museum." ( The Story of the Mormons, Linn, p. 87.) 

Of this presentation of the matter it is only necessary to say that it is a UHle 
singular that Mr. Fugate alone out of the three said to be in collusion in perpetrat- 
ing the fraud should disclose it, and that he should wait from 1343 to 1879 — a period 
of thirty- six years— before doing so, when he and those said to be associated with 
him had such an excellent opportunity to expose the vain pretensions of the Prophet 
— if Fugate's tale be true — during his life time. For while the statement in the text 
of the Prophet's journal to the effect that the find was genuine, and that he had 
translated some of the characters and learned certain historical facts concerning 
the person with whose remains the plates were found, may not have been known 
at the time to the alleged conspiritors to deceive him still it is quite apparent that 
the editor of the Times and Seasons — John Taylor, the close personal friend of 
the Prophet— took the find seriously, and expressed implicit confidence in his edi- 
torial that the Prophet could give a translation of the plates. And this attitude 
the Church, continued to maintain; for in The Prophet, (a Mormon weekly peri- 
odical, published in New York) of the 15 th of February, 1845, there was published 
a facsimile of the Kinderhook plates, together with the Times and Seasons 
editorial and all the above matter of the text. How easy to have covered 
Joseph Smith and his followers with ridicule by proclaiming the hoax as soon as 
they accepted the Kinderdook plates as genuine! Why was it not done 1 ? The fact 
that Fngate's story was not told until thirty-six years after the event, and that he 
alone of all those who were connected with the event gives that version of it, is 
rather strong evidence that his story is the hoax, not the discovery of the plates 
nor the engravings upon them. 

"The plates," says Professor Linn, "were finally given to one 'Professor' Mc. 
Dowell of St. Louis, for his museum." This on the authority of WyVs Mormon 
Portraits, (p. 207). And Professor Linn in a note adds: ^Tjie peflr^^y-"*-**"*-**^- 
souriJiisfcei4«a4- Society vvillca me tha t McDuwull's nr nSeum disappeared iJOTne time 
agf^nriost of its cgntPntg h&ing lost, or-g tolem-ftnd-t he fate of the Kinderhook-P late s 
c annot he a scertained." (Story of the Mormons, p. 87 and footnote.) 



380 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

the Testament at the 27th chapter of Acts, and asked 
the passengers how they would feel to be ship- 

A Prophecy. wrecked Hke p aul? EMer T^om^S Bullock 

replied instantly, "It is very likely we shall be ship- 
wrecked ; but the hull of this old vessel has got to carry 
us safe into New Orleans." The mate was then called 
away to hoist the fore- top-royal sail. 

Between one and two next morning, when off Cape St. 
Antonio, Cuba, there was much vivid lightning, when a 
white squall caught the fore-top-royal sail, which careened 
the vessel, when the foremast, mainmast, and mizzenmast 
snapped asunder with an awful crash: the whole of the 
masts above, with the jib- and spanker, and sixteen sails 
and studding poles, were carried overboard with a tre- 
mendous splash and surge, when the vessel righted. Day- 
break, found the deck all in confusion and a complete 
wreck. During the day, hoisted a sail from the stump of 
the mainmast to the bow of the vessel, thus leaving noth- 
ing but the hull of the vessel to carry the Saints into New 
Orleans. 

Wednesday , 3. — Called at the office and drank a glass 
of wine with Sister Jenetta Richards, made by her mother 
in England, and reviewed a portion of the conference 
minutes. 

Two p. m., mayor's court, "City versus A. Gay," on 
complaint of William Law, for unbecoming language and 
refusing to leave the store when told to. Fined $5 and costs. 

Directed a letter to be written to Gen. James Adams, 
of Springfield, to have him meet the Maid of Iowa on her 
return from St. Louis, and arrange with the proprietors 
to turn her into a Nauvoo ferry boat, which letter was 
written the same hour. 

This day the first number of the Nauvoo Neighbor was 
issued by John Taylor and Wilford Woodruff, in place of 
the Wasp, which ceased; and I here insert the first edi- 
torial: — 

Editorial from the Nauvoo Neighbor. 
We now, according to promise, present our young friend before the 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 381 

world in his new dress and with his new name. As the last week has 
been one of the warm weeks in the spring, when vegetation springs 
forth and life and animation are given to the vegetable world, so our 
efforts to cultivate the plant of Intelligence, having been watered by in- 
dustry, enlivened by perseverance, and warmed by the genial rays of 
patronage, have not been unsuccessful; for the young gentleman has 
grown in one short week to doable his former size. 

Relative to his dress, we have to apologize a little. As we did not 
live near a store, we could not get all the trimmings which we could 
have desired, to have made him pass so well with the elite in the fashion- 
able world. However, among plain folks, he will now pass very well; 
and we soon expect to see him in a form that will suit the taste of the 
most fastidious. 

Relative to the course that we shall pursue, we shall endeavor to 
cultivate a friendly feeling towards all, and not interfere with the rights 
of others, either politically or religiously. We shall advocate the cause 
of the innocent and oppressed, uphold the cause of right, sustain the 
principles of republicanism, and fly to the succor of the helpless and 
forlorn, pouring in oil and wine to their wounds, and acting in every 
way to all the human family in the capacity that our name imports — 
viz., that of a Neighbor. 

We have had and may have to defend ourselves against the oppres- 
sions, persecutions, and innovations of men. And if this should be the 
case, we shall not shrink from the task, but shall fearlessly and unflinch- 
ingly defend our rights, sustaining that liberty which our glorious con- 
stitution guarantees to every American citizen, for which our fathers 
jeopardized their liberty, their lives, and their sacred honor. 

Amidst the warring elements that are disturbing the world, we are 
glad to find so amiable and friendly a spirit manifested to us at the 
present time by the press; and we can assure them that, so long as they 
let us alone, we shall not interfere with them. 

It has been our study to avoid contention, and we have never inter- 
fered with others until they have thrown down the gauntlet; and as we 
have not been up to the present the aggressors so we are determined for 
the future not to be the aggressors. 

We have always endeavored to cultivate a spirit of friendship, amity, 
and peace with mankind. If we have not succeeded, the fault has not 
been with us. Rumor, with her ten thousand tongues, has always been 
busy circulating falsehood and misrepresentation concerning us; and 
men have frequently, in the absence of correct information, entertained 
unfavorable opinions concerning us, and have spoken as they thought: 
but when they have been better informed, they # have i*egretted their 
course, and have seen that calumny has been like a viper in our path 
and has stuns: like an adder. 



382 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. 1843 

In regard to our political rights, our religion has frequently been 
made use of by political demagogues as a bugbear to deprive us of the 
free untrammelled rights of American citizens. This is a thing that we 
have always protested against, and we always shall, so Ions: as that 
blood that fired the bosoms of our ancestors who fought, bled, and died, 
in defense of equal rights, flows through our veins. 

Concerning religion we consider that all men have a right to worship 
Almighty God according to the dictates of their own conscience. And 
while we allow ail men freely to enjoy this privilege untrammeled by 
us, we look upon all men that would abridge us or others in their relig- 
ious rights as enemies to the constitution, recreant to the principles of 
republicanism; and whilst they render themselves despicable, they are 
striking a secret but deadly blow at the freedom of this great republic; 
and their withering influence, though unseen and unobserved by the 
many, is like a worm gnawing the very vitals of the tree of liberty. We 
shall always contend for our religious rights. In short, the liberty of 
the press, liberty of conscience and of worship, free discussion, sailors' 
rights, we shall always sustain. 

Thursday , 4. — At four p. m., heard read a letter from 
James Arlington Bennett, showing that he was sick and 
could not attend the inspection of the Nauvoo Legion, ac- 
cording to his appointment. 

Having received a letter from George W. Kobinson in 
relation to his land difficulties, 1 went to Sidney Rigdon 
and procured a deed for Carlos Granger's farm, and set- 
tled that business. 

Friday, 5. — Told the Temple committee that I had a 
right to take away any property I chose from the Temple 
office or store, and they had no right to stand in the way. 
It is the people that are to dictate me, and not the com- 
mittee. All the property I have belongs to the Temple, 
and what I do is for the benefit of the Temple; and you 
have no authority only as you receive it from me. 

Received the following: — 

Letter oj H. B. Hotchlciss to Joseph Smith— Property litles. 

New York, 7th April. 1843. 
Joseph Smith, Esq, 

Dear Sir: — I received on Saturday last a letter from Mr. Catlin, 
notifying me that the equity of redemption in my Nauvoo property 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 38o 

would be sold on the 12th instant, and asking me whether I wished it 
to be purchased for me. I suppose it is quite immaterial whether I or 
you hold the riejht of redeeming; for if it should again come into my 
possession, I wish it understood distinctly by them who have built upon 
it that I shall not attempt to take their buildings from them, but shall 
toe ready at any time to give them a lease of their lots for a very long 
period, at a reasonable rent. My wish, as well as my interest, leads 
me to conciliate and make them my friends, instead of making them 
my enemies. 

Your obedient servant, 

H. R. Hotchkiss. 

Which I recorded in the City Record of Deeds: — 

Hotchkiss Letter Becorded. 

Recorder's Office, May 5, 1843. 



Sate of Illinois, 

K ss. 



City of Nauvoo, 

I, Joseph Smith, recorder in and for the said city of Nauvoo, Han- 
cock county, and state aforesaid, do hereby certify that the within letter 
was duly recorded in Book A, page 140, and numbered 134. 

Joseph Smith, Recorder. 
By William Clayton, Clerk. 

Saturday, 6. — In the morning, had an interview with a 
lecturer on Mesmerism and Phrenology. Objected to his 
performing in the city. Also had an interview with a 
Methodist preacher, and conversed about his God without 
body or parts. 

At half-past nine a. m., I mounted with my staff, and 
with the band, and about a dozen ladies, led by Emma, and 
proceeded to the general parade-ground of the Legion 
Nauvoo Legion, east of my farm on the prairie. Parade - 
The Legion looked well — better than on any former occa- 
sion, and they performed their evolutions in admirable 
style. 

The officers did honor to the Legion. Many of them 
were equipped and armed cap-a-pie. The men were in 
good spirits. They had made great improvements both 
in uniform and discipline, and we felt proud to be associ- 
ated with a body of men, which, in point of discipline, 



384 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1845 

uniform, appearance, and a knowledge of military tactics, 
are the pride of Illinois, one of its strongest defenses, and 
a great bulwark of the western country. 

In the course of my remarks on the prairie, I told the 
Legion that when we have petitioned those in power for 
assistance, they have always told us they had no power to 
help us. Damn such traitors! When they give me th*f r 
power to protect the innocent, I will never say I can do 
nothing for their good: I will exercise that power, so help 
me God. At the close of the address, the Legion marched 
to the city and disbanded in Main Street, about two p.m., 
the day being windy and very cold. 

There were two United States officers and General Swa- 
zey, of Iowa, present, who expressed great satisfaction at 
our appearance and evolutions. 

In the evening, attended Mr. Vicker's performance of 
wire dancing, legerdemain, magic, etc. 

A conference was held at Toulon, Stark county, Illinois: 
5 branches, 17 elders, 3 priests, 4 teachers, 2 deacons, 
and 129 members were represented. 

A branch has been recently organized at Lyons, Wayne 
county, New York, consisting of two elders, 1 priest, 1 
teacher, and 22 members. 

Sunday, 7. — In the forenoon I was visited by several 
gentlemen, concerning the plates that were dug out near 
Kinderhook. 

The council of the First Presidency met. 

Elder Brigham Young preached at La Harpe. 

Monday, 8. — I called at the office at seven a. m., 
with a supersedeas to stay suit, Thompson versus Dixon. 

John Scott was unwilling to give Sister Mulholland one- 
fourth of the lot as directed by me. 

Tuesday, 9. — In company with my wife, mother, and my 
adult family, also Sidney Rigdon, Parley P. Pratt, John 
steam Boat Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, and about one 
Excursion. hundred gentlemen and ladies, went aboard 
the Maid of Iowa, started at ten minutes before eight a.m., 



A.D. 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 385 

from the Nauvoo dock, under a salute of cannon, having 
on board a fine band of music. 

We had an excellent address from our esteemed friend, 
Parley P. Pratt. The band performed its part well. Much 
good humor and hilarity prevailed. The captain and of- 
ficers on board did all they could to make us comfortable, 
and we had a very agreeable and pleasant trip. 

We started with the intention of visiting Augusta; but, 
in consequence of the lowness of Shunk river, it was im- 
practicable. We therefore altered our course to Burling- 
ton, touching at Fort Madison on our way up, and at 
Shokoquon on our return. 

In consequence of the governor of Iowa having refused 
to withdraw a writ reported to have been issued on a de- 
mand from the executive of Missouri, on the same charge 
as that for which I had been discharged by Judge Pope, 
I dispensed with the pleasure of calling upon my friends 
in Burlington and Fort Madison. During our stay at those 
places, I kept myself concealed on the boat. 

The Maid of Iowa did well. Her accomodations are 
good for the size of the boat, and she performed her trip 
in less time than we anticipated, and we returned home 
about eight p. m. 

Wednesday, 10. — Directed Dr. Willard Richards never 
to let the court-room be occupied by any person until he 
received $2 in advance. 

The blossoms on the apple and other trees appeared. 

Took my brother William, Elders Jedediah M. Grant, 
Ebenezer Robinson and Horace K. Whitney in my car- 
riage to the Upper Steam Boat Landing and back, They 
were intending to start on their missions, but no steam- 
boat came. 

A meeting of the Saints was held at Leechburgh, Penn- 
sylvania, numbered 5 elders, 2 priests, 1 teacher, and 50 
members. 

Thursday, 11. — At six a. m., baptized Louisa Beeman, 
Sarah Alley, and others. 

25 



386 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Eight a. m., went to see the new carriage made by Tho- 
mas Moore, which was ready for traveling. Emma went to 
Quincy in the new carriage. I rode out as far as the prairie. 

Ten a. m., Brigham Young, Heber 0. Kimball, Parley 
P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Orson Hyde, Wilford Woodruff, 
George A. Smith, John Taylor, and Willard Richards as- 
sembled in council, and voted — 

That Addison Pratt, Noah Rogers, Benjamin 

Mission ** ' u 

Appoint- F. Grouard, and Knowlton F. Hanks go on a 

nisnts • ' 

mission to the Pacific Isles ; Captain Dan Jones 
prepare himself to take a mission to Wales : James Sloan 
go to Ireland; Reuben Hedlock, John Cairnes and Samuel 
James to England, and that Reuben Hedlock preside over 
the Church in Great Britain, and be assisted by Elders 
Hiram Clark and Thomas Ward; that Brother Cairnes go 
to Scotland, Lucius N. Scovil to England, under the di- 
rection of Brother Hedlock ; and that Amos Fielding come 
immediately to Nauvoo, or be cut off from the Church. 
Also, that this quorum- recommend George Walker to Pres- 
ident Joseph Smith, as clerk of the Nauvoo House. 

President Young stated that Lucien Woodworth had of- 
fered the use of his draft for the Nauvoo House, table, etc. , 
if any one would copy it; but he had not time to comply 
with the request of the quorum to furnish a full draft. 

Friday, 12. — Purchased half of the steamer Maid of 
Iowa, from Moffatt; and Captain Dan Jones commenced 
running her between Nauvoo and Montrose as a ferry-boat. 

At sunrise, Bishop George Miller arrived with araft of 
50,000 feet of pine lumber for the Temple and Nauvoo 
House, from the pinery on Black River, Wisconsin, where 
the snow was about 2£ feet deep in the winter. 

In the council of the Twelve it was agreed to visit Lima, 
La Harpe. and Ramus, and hold conferences concerning 
the Nauuoo House. 



a.d. i843i history of tm^i^vikjh. 387 

unlocks tl 

*«SReM*TER XX. 

IMPOHTANT ^V^Ira^W ITEMS : SALVATION THEOUGH KNOWL- 
EDGE -g'^fcT^^S^lN IN COUNCILS — IMPORTANCE OF THE 
DOCT^f^^C^HE ETERNITY OF TBE MARRIAGE COVENANT 
— T##; 4 35&£*RE OF MATTER. THE PROPHECY ON THE 

HEMP^y^ Stephen a. douglas — the work among the 

fe&ralS&AVIANS IN ILLINOIS. 

Satit? )$Un t May 13, 1843. — I rode to Yelrome, in com- 
pa^a^vj|p Brothers Wilford Woodruff and George A. 
Sifl^WV^d tarried for the night with Father Morley. 
Bttyfj^rs Woodruff and Smith slept at Brother Durfee's. 
B^'tftft'fer Brigham Young went to La Harpe, and Brothers 
^(^WeFJC. Kimball and Orson Pratt to Eamus. 

jjffiMlay, 14. — Meeting at Yelrome, where I preached. 
|$he following is a synopsis, reported by Elder Wood- 
ptf.] 

ah i 

Salvation Ihrough Knoivledge. 

It is not wisdom that we should have all knowledge at once presented 
before us; but that we should have a little at a time; then we can com- 
prehend it. President Smith then read the 2nd Epistle of Peter, 1st 
chapter, 16th to last verses, and dwelt upon the 19th verse with some 
remarks. 

Add to your faith knowledge, &c. The principle of knowledge is~t he 
principle of salvation. This principle can be comprehended by the 
fai^Jhf uK and diligent; and every one that does not obtain knowledge 
sufficient to be saved will be condemned. The principle of salvation is 
given us through the knowledge of Jesus Christ. 

Salvation is nothing more nor less than to triumph over all our ene 
mies and put them under our feet. And when we have power to put all 
enemies under our feet in this world, and a knowledge to triumph over 
all evil spirits in the world to come, then we are saved, as in the case 




388 HL^f]^mqf^TnM cfltracH. [a.d mz 



of Jesus, who was to reign upujW^j^d pat all enemies under His feet, 
and the last enemy was death.* n * 

Perhaps there are principles nere^Anat few men £aVe thought of. No 
person can have this salvation exceptHVarough a tabei&acle. 

Now, in this world, mankind arB^hatt*^raf^* selfish^* ambitious and 
striving to excel one above ar^ fl - ■• yllxj(ltfne kre willing to build up 
others as well as themselves. c>- m the ®jffl$ ; ^(JfJ^there, are a variety 
of spirits. Some seek to excel. And this was the case with Lucifer 
when he fell. He sought for things which were,ufktawiul. Hence he 
was sent down, and it is said he drew many nwa*f^Hntfr him; and the 
greatness of - his punishment is that he shall n^Hdfi^kltabernacle. 
This is his punishment. So the devil, thinking to ti^^ltj^xlecree of 
God, by going up and down in the earth, seeking whoiH^^FQjijpvjJestroy 
— any person that he can find that will yield to him, he^UjUkjpd him, 
and take possession of the body and reign ihere, glorying iu it «wu?htUy, 
not caring that he had got merely a stolen body; and by-andAvvspme 
one having authority will come along and cast him out and r restore the 
tabernacle to its rightful owner. The devil steals a tabernimJfAi^lSti.M- 
he has not one of his own: but if he steals one, he is always Mfrb^&ffce 
turned out of doors. v lT^ii&>!!E< 

Now, there is some grand secret here, and keys to unlockjUWjg^to 
ject. Notwithstanding the apostle exhorts them to add to th^fwj&u 
virtue, knowledge, temperance, &c, yet he exhorts them to make^teu- 
calling and election sure. And though they had heard an audible "voice 
from heaven bearing testimony that Jesus was the Son of God, y^tifel 
says we have a more sure word of prophecy, where unto ye do well tltfftf 
ye take heed as unto a light shining in a dark place. Now, wherein- 
could they have a more sure word of prophecy than to hear the voice 
of God saying, This is my beloved Son, &c. 

Now for the secret and grand key, Though they might hear the voice 
of God and know that Jesus was the Son of God, this would be no evn 
dence that their election and calling was made sure, that they had part 
with Christ, and were joint heirs with Him. They then would want 
that more sure word of prophecy, that they were sealed in the heavens 
and had the promise of eternal life in the kingdom of God. Then, 
having this promise sealed unto them, it was an anchor to the soul, sure 
and steadfast. Though the thunders might roll and lightnings flash, 
and earthquakes bellow, and war gather thick around, yet this hope 
and knowledge would support the sonl in every hour of trial, trouble 

* It is evident from this remark, "the last enemy was death," that the prophet 
in saying that "salvation is * * * to triumph over all our enemies," does not 
allude alone, or even chiefly, to personal "enemies;" but to evil inclinations, weak- 
nesses, passions, sickness and death, as well. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. o89 

and tribulation. Then knowledge through our Lord and Savior Jesus 
Christ is the grand key that unlocks the glories and mysteries of the 
kingdom of heaven. 

Compare this principle once with Christeudom at the present day, 
and where are they, with all their boasted religion, piety and sacredness 
whiln at the same time they are crying out against prophets, apostles, 
angels, revelations, prophesying and visions, &c. Why, they are just 
ripeniug for the damnation of hell. They will be damned, for they 
reject the most glorious principle ot the Gospel of Jesus Christ and 
treat with disdain and trample under foot the key that unlocks the 
heavens and puts in our possession the glories of the celestial world. 
Yes, 1 say, such will be damned, with all their professed godliness. 
Tkeu^-^w^v^exh£i);tL^£L\L to ^o^on-an^j^tiniie^to-call upon" God^ until 
you- make your calling and election sure for yourselves, by obtaining 
this more sure word of prophecy, and wait patiently for the promise 
until you obtain it, &c. 

Elders George A. Smith and Wilford Woodruff followedlhim with a 
few remarks, and meeting closed for one hour. When we met again, 
Wilford Woodruff opened meeting and spoke upon revelation and 
obeying L . <* commandments by building the Nauvoo House, and was 
followed by J-eorge A. Smith upon the same subject. Elder Lorenzo 
Snow then spoke somewhat at length concerning his mission to Eng- 
land, which was interesting. 

After meeting, we rode to Lima, and took supper with Calvin Beebe; 
and while we were conversing with Brother Joseph and Brother Isaac 
Morley, Brother Joseph made the following remarks: 

Ihe Value of Aged Men in Counsel. 

The way to get along in any important matter is to gather unto your- 
selves wise men, experienced and aged men, to assist in council in all 
times of trouble. Handsome men are not apt to be wise and strong- 
minded men; but the strength of a strong-minded man will generally 
create coarse features, like the rough, strong bough of the oak. You 
will always discover in the first glance of a man, in the outlines of his 
features something of his mind. 

Excitement has almost become tne essence of my life. When that 
dies away, I feel almost lost. When a man is reined up continually by 
excitement, he becomes strong and gains power and knowledge; but 
when he relaxes for a season, he loses much of *his power and knowl- 
edge. But in all matters, temporal or spiritual, preaching the Gospel 
of Jesus Christ, or in leading an army to battle, victory almost entirely 
depends upon good order and moderation. In going to battle, move 
slowly, dress up into line; and though your enemy rush upon you with 



390 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

fury, meet them slowly but firmly. Let not confusion or terror seize 
upon you, but meet them firmly and strike a heavy blow and conquer. 
A man can bear a heavy burthen by practice and continuing to in- 
crease it. The inhabitants of this continent anciently were so consti- 
tuted, and were so determined and persevering, either in righteousness 
or wickedness, that God visited them immediately either with great 
judgments or blessings. But the present generation, if they were 
going to battle, if they got any assistance from God, they would have 
to obtain it by faith. 

President Young preached at La Harpe. 

Almon W. Babbitt preached all the afternoon, and pre- 
vented Elders Kimball and Orson .Pratt froni giving in- 
structions regarding their mission to Ramus. 

The wind blew terribly from the southwest all day. 

A naval action took place between the Texan and Mexi- 
can fleets at Campeachy. 

Edward Brazier, aged 18, was drowned in the Missis- 
sippi river, by the upsetting of a skiff. Samuel Kearns 
was preserved from a similar fate by Captain Dan Jones. 

Monday, 15. — Emma having arrived at Yelrome, last 
night from Quincy, with the carriage, we rode home 
together. On our way, we stopped a short time at 
Brother Perry's. Brothers George A. Smith and Wilford 
Woodruff rode in my buggy. I was asked if the horse 
would stand without tying. I answered, "Yes: but never 
trust property to the mercy or judgment of a horse." 

[The following under this date is from the journal of 
George A. Smith:] 

The Love oj the Proj)het for George A. Smith. 

At noon, stopped at the house of Mr. McMahon, a notorious anti- 
Mormon, at Green Plains, and waited some time for Mae to come in. 
Joseph and myself spent this time in conversation on the grass-plot 
south of the house. Joseph asked my opinion of W. W. Phelps as 
an editor. I told him that I considered Phelps the sixth part of an 
editor, and that was the satirist. When it came to the cool direction 
necessarily intrusted to an editor in the control of public opinion — the 
soothing of enmity, he was deficient, and would always make more 
enemies than friends; but for my part,if I were able, I would be willing 



a.u. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 391 

to pay Phelps for editing a paper, providing no body else should have 
the privilege of reading it but myself. Joseph laughed heartily — said I had 
the thing just right. Said he, "Brother Phelps makes such a severe 
use of language as to make enemies all the time." 

At the close of the conversation, Joseph wrapped his arms around 
me, and squeezed me to his bosom and said, "George A., I love you as 
I do my own life." I felt so affected, I could hardly speak, but 
replied, "I hope, Brother Joseph, that my whole life and actions will 
ever prove my feelings, and the depth of my affection towards you.' 1 

A great hailstorm in Gettysburg, Penn. The stones 
were from six to eight inches in circumference. Much 
damage done. 

Tuesday, 16. — At eleven o'clock, with George Miller, 
William Clayton, Eliza and Lydia Partridge 

J \ J ° Visit of the 

and J. M. Smith, I started for Carthage, Prophet to 

where we tarried about half-an-hour con vers- -, 

ing with different individuals, ^rhen we started for Ramus ; • 
arrived about half-past three, p. m., and stayed at Wil- 
liam G. Perkins for the evening; then went to Benjamin 
F. Johnson's with William Clayton to sleep. Before 
retiring, I gave Brother and Sister Johnson some instruc- 
tions on the priesthood; and putting my hand on the knee 
of William Clayton, I said: 

Remarks oj the Prophet at Ramus — Lives that are Hid with God in Christ 
— Importance o) the Eternity of the Marriage Covenant. 

Your life is hid with Christ in God, and so are many others. Nothing 
but the unpardonable sin can prevent you from inheriting eternal life 
for you are sealed up by the power of the Priesthood unto eternal life, 
having taken the step necessary for that purpose 

Except a man and his wife enter into an everlasting covenant and be 
married for eternity, while in this probation, by the power and author- 
ity of the Holy Priesthood, they will cease to increase when they die; 
that is, they will not have any children after the resurrection. But 
those who are married by the power and authority of the priesthood in 
this life, and continue without committing the sin against the Holy 
Ghost, will continue to increase and have children in the celestial glory. 
The unpardonable sin is to shed innocent blood, or be accessory thereto. 
All other sins will be visited with judgment in the flesh, and the spirit 



392 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D 1843 

being delivered to the bufferings of Satan until the day of the Lord Jesus. 

The way I know in whom to confide — God teDs me in whom I may 
place confidence. 

In the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees; and in 
order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the 
priesthood, [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage:] 
and if he does not, he cannot obtain it. He may enter into the other, 
but that is the end of his kingdom: he cannot have an increase."* 

The Twelve met in the office to see Mr. Brown, but he 
did not appear; and they voted that John E. Page be 
requested to repair immediately to Cincinnati and preach 
till they arrive. 

Wednesday, 17. — Partook of breakfast at Brother Per- 
kins' ; after which we took a pleasure ride through Foun- 
tain Green. 

At ten a. m. preached from 2nd Peter, 1st chapter and 
showed that knowledge is power; and the man who has 
the most knowledge has the greatest power. 

Items of Doctrine by the Prophet. 

Salvation means a man's being placed beyond the power of all his 
enemies. 

The more sure word of prophecy means a man's knowing that he is 
sealed up into eternal life by revelation and the spirit of prophecy, 
through the power of the holy priesthood. It is impossible for a man 
to be saved in ignorance, t 

Paul saw the third heavens, and Ijmore. Peter penned the most sub-' 
lime language of any of the apostles. 

In the afternccn attended council, and afterwards rode 
with Benjamin F. Johnson's family. 

In the evening went to hear a Methodist preacher lec- 
ture. After he got through, offered some corrections as 
follows : 

Items of Doctrine by the Prophet. 

/The 7th verse of 2nd chapter of Genesis ought to read — God breathed 

* The last paragraph is found in the Doctrine and Covenants, section 131: 1-4. 
tThis paragraph is also included in the Doctrine and Covenants, section 131: 5 6. 



A.D. 1843 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 393 

into Adam his spirit [i. e. Adam's spirit]* or breath of life; but when 
the word "rauch" applies to Eve, it should be translated lives. 

Speaking of eternal duration of matter, I said: 

There is no such thine as immaterial matter. All spirit is matter, but is 
more fine or pure, and can only be discerned by purer eyes. We cannot 
see it, but when our bodies are purified, we shall see that it is all matter^ 

The priest seemed pleased with the correction, and 
stated his intention to visit Nauvoo. 

A conference was held in the Columbia Hall, Grand 
Street, New York, where fifteen branches, New York - 
six high priests, thirty-six elders, nineteen Contereiice - 
priests, sixteen teachers, five deacons, and three hun- 
dred and eighty- seven members were represented. Forty- 
nine have been baptized since last conference; many have 
removed to Nauvoo; and twenty-eight have been excom- 
municated. Four elders and one priest were ordained. 

Thursday, 18. — We left Macedonia about half past 
eight a. m., and arrived at Carthage at ten. 

[The following brief account of the prophet's visit with 
Judge Douglas while at Carthage is from the journal of 
William Clayton, who was present:] 

7 he Great Projihecy on the Head of Stephen A. Douglas. 

Dined with Judge Stephen A. Douglas, who is presiding at court. 
After dinner Judge Douglas requested President Joseph to give him 
a history of the Missouri persecution, which he did in a very minute 
manner, for about three hours. He also gave a relation of his journey 
to Washington city, and his application in behalf of the Saints to Mr. 
Van Buren, the President of the United States, for redress and Mr. 
Van Buren's pusillanimous reply, ''Gentlemen, your cause is just, but 
I can do nothing for you;" and the cold, unfeeling manner in which he 
was treated by most of the senators and representatives in relation to 
the subject, Clay saying, "You had better go to Oregon,*' and Cal- 
haun shaking his head solemnly, saying, "It's a nice question — 
a critical question, but it will not do to agitate it." 

The judge listened with the greatest attention and spoke warmly in 

* Doctrine and Covenants, section 131: 7-8. The interpretation implied in the 
words in brackets is justified by the following from the Book of Abraham: "And 
the Gods formed man from the du?t of the ground, and took his spirit (that is, 
the man's spirit) and put it into him, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of 
life, and man became a living soul." Chap, v: 1, 8. 



394 HISTORYOF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

depreciation of the conduct of Governor Boggs and the authorities of 
Missouri, who had taken part in the extermination, and said that any 
people that would do as the mobs of Missouri had done ought to be 
brought to -judgment : they ought to be punished. 

President Smith, in concluding his remarks, said that if the govern- 
ment, which received into its coffers the money of citizens for its public 
lands, while its officials are rolling in luxury at the expense of its public 
treasury, cannot protect such citizens in their lives and property, it is 
an old granny anyhow; and I prophesy in the name of the Lord God of 
Israel, unless the United States redress the wrongs committed upon the 
Saints in the state of Missouri and punish the crimes committed by her 
officers that in a few years the government will be utterly overthrown 
and wasted, and there will not be so much as a potsherd left, for their 
wickedness in permitting the murder of men, women and children, and 
the wholesale plunder and extermination of thousands of her citizens to 
go unpunished, thereby perpetrating a foul and corroding blot upon 
the fair fame of this great republic, the very thought of which would 
have caused the high-minded and patriotic framers of the Constitution 
of the United States to hide their faces with shame. Judge, you will 
aspire to the presidency of the United States; and if ever you turn your 
hand against me or the Latter-day Saints ( you will feel the weight of the 
hand of Almighty upon you; and you will live to see and know that I 
have testified the truth to you; for the conversation of this day will stick 
to you through life. 

He [Judge Douglas] appeared very friendly, and acknowledged the 
truth and propriety of President Smith's remarks.* 

We then rode home, where we arrived about half-past 
five p. m., and found my family all well. 

Mr. Joseph H. Jackson, who professed to be a Catholic 
priest, was at my house awaiting my arrival. 

At six p. m., I called at my office for Arlington Ben- 
nett's letter. 

Friday, 19. — I borrowed of Orson Hyde fifty dollars, 
which I paid to Mr. Eric Rhodes, and which he is either 
to repay in cash or let me have lumber. 

I rode out with Mr. Jackson in the afternoon. 

Told Brother Phelps a dream that the history must go 
ahead before anything else. 

Elder George P. Dykes writes: 

* See note at end of chapter. 



A.D. 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. 395 

The Work Among the Scandinavians oj Illinois. 

One year since, I visited a settlement of Norwegians in La Salle 
county, Illinois, and baptized five, and ordained one elder, when I left 
them for about one month; then returned and organized the branch, 
and called it the La Salle Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Lat- 
ter-day Saints, and ordained Brother Gudmund Haugaas an elder— a 
man of strong mind and well skilled in the scriptures. He can preach 
in Norway, Sweden and Demark, having an understanding of their 
languages. 

I returned to Nauvoo, and in a few days I was appointed by the 
special conference in August to labor in Illinois. I traveled through 
eighteen different counties, baptized six in Perry county, and returned 
home in December. 

In January I left again and went to St. Clair county, where I was 
joined by Brother Henry B. Jacobs, who baptized twelve; and I bap- 
tized a German after he left. 

I preached in Chester, Sparta and Bellville. From thence returned 
home, and again visited Ottawa, La Salle county. Spent two weeks, 
and baptized seven. I found the Church there in good spirits and in 
the enjoyment of the spiritual gifts. 

The La Salle branch now numbers fifty-eight in good standing. 
Elder Ole Hoier was chosen to preside over them. He is well worth} 7 
of the office. 

Elder Gudmund Haugaas and Brother J. R. Anderson visited the 
Norwegian settlement in Lee county, Iowa, in January last. Spent 
three weeks, baptized ten, ordained one priest, and left them and went 
home to La Salle county. 

From thence Brothers Haugaas and Hoier visited a large body from 
Norway in Wisconsin Territory, and have laid the foundation of a great 
work, to all appearance. There are now fifty-seven membersof the 
Church from Norway; and the time is not far distant when the saying 
of Micah iv, 2 will he fulfilled. 



NOTE. 
The Prophet Joseph's Prediction Respecting Stephen A. Douglas. 

The prediction concerning Stephen A. Douglas in this chapter, is one of the* 
most remarkable prophecies either in ancient or modern times. It was impossible 
for any merely human sagacity to foresee the events predicted. Stephen A. Doug- 
las was a bright, but comparatively an unknown man, nationally, at the time of 
the interview, May, 1843, and but thirty years of age. It is a matter of his- 
tory that Stephen A. Douglas did, however, aspire to the presidency of the United 
States, and was nominated for that office by the Democratic convention held in 
Charleston, South Carolina, on the 23rd of June, 1860. 

When in the convention he was declared the regular nominee of the Democratic 
party, "the whole body rose to its feet, hats were waved in the air, and many tossed 



396 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. iA.D. 1843 

aloft; shouts, screams and yells, and every boisterous mode of expressing approba- 
tion and unanimity, were resorted to." 

When Mr. Douglas aspired to the presidency, no man in the history of American 
politics had more reason to hope for success. The political partyof which he was the 
recognized leader, in the preceding presidential election had polled one hundred 
and seventy-four electoral votes as against one hundred and twentj'-two cast for the 
other two parties which opposed it; and a popular vote of 1,838,169 as against 
1,215,789 votes for the two parties opposing. It is a matter of history, however, 
that the Democratic party in the election of 1860 was badly divided; and factions of 
it put candidates into the field with the following results: Mr. Abraham Lincoln, 
candidate for the Republican party, was triumphantly elected. He received 72 elec- 
toral votes; Mr. Bell 39; and Mr. Douglass 12. "By a plurality count of the popular 
vote, Mr. Lincoln carried 18 states; Mr. Breckinridge 11; Mr. Bell 3: and Mr. Doug- 
las but one!" Twenty days less than one year after his nomination by the Charles- 
ton convention, while yet in the prime of manhood — forty-eight years of age, — Mr. 
Douglas died at his home in Chicago, a disappointed, not to say heart-broken 
man. 

Let us now search out the cause of his failure. Fourteen years after the inter- 
view containing the prophecy recorded in this chapter, and about one year 
after the prophecy had been published in the Deseret JVeica, Mr. Dougla. c . was 
called upon to deliver a speech in Springfield, the capital of Illinois. His speech 
was delivered on the 12th of June, 1857, and published in the Missouri Republican 
of June l 8 , 1857. It was a time of excitement throughout the country concerning the 
Mormon Church in Utah. Falsehoods upon the posting winds seemed to have tilled 
the air with the most outrageous calumny. Crimes, the most repulsive— murders, 
robberies, rebellion and high treason— were falsely charged against its leaders. It 
was well known that Mr. Douglas had been on terms of intimate friendship with 
the Prophet Joseph Smith; and was well acquainted with the other Church leaders. 
He was therefore looked upon as one competent to speak upon the "Mormon 
question," and was invited to do so in the speech to which reference is here made. 
Mr. Douglas responded to the request. He grouped the charges against the Mor- 
mons, then passing current, in the following manner: 

"First, that nine-tenths of the inhabitants are aliens by birth who have refused 
to become naturalized, or to take the oath of allegiance, or do any other act recog- 
nizing the g^verment of the United States as the paramount authority in that ter- 
ritority [Utah]; 

"Second, that the inhabitants, whether native or alien born, known as Mor- 
mons (and they constitutive the whole people of the territory) are bound by hor- 
rible oaths and terrible penalties, to recognize and maintain the authority of Brig- 
ham Young, and the government of which he is head, as paramount to that of the 
United States, in civil as well as religious affairs; and they will in due time, and 
under the direction of their leaders, use all the means in their power to subvert 
the government of the United States, and resist its authority. 

"Third, that the Mormon government, with Brigham Young at its head, is now 
forming alliance with Indian tribes in Utah and adjoining territories— stimulating 
the Indians to acts of hostility- -and organizing bands of his own followers under 
the name of Danites or destroying angels, to prosecute a system of robbery and 
murders upon American citizens who support the authority of the United States, 
and denounce the infamous and disgusting practices and institutions of the Mormon 
government." 

Mr. Douglas based his remarks upon these rumors against the Saints, in the 
course of which he said: 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. S{)*3 

"Let us have these facts in an official shape before the president and Congress, 
and the country will learn that in the performance of the high and solemn duty de- 
volving upon the executive and Congress, there will be no vacillating or hesitating 
policy. It will be as prompt as the peal that follows the flash— as stern and un- 
yielding as death. Should such a state of things actually exist as we are led to 
infer from the reports — and such information comes in an official shape— the knife 
must be applied to this pestiferous, disgusting cancer which is gnawing into the very 
vitals of the body politic. It must be cut out by the roots, and seared over by the 
red hot iron of stern, unflinching law. * * * Should all efforts fail to bring 
them (the Mormons) to a sense of their duty, there is but one remedy left. Repeal 
the organic law of the territory, on the ground that they are alien enemies and out- 
laws, unfit to be citizens of a territory, much less ever to become citizens of one of 
the free and independent states of this confederacy. To protect them further in 
their treasonable, disgusting and bestial practices would be a disgrace to the coun- 
try—a disgrace to humanitj' — a disgrace to civilization, and a disgrace to the spirit 
of the age. Blot it out of the organized territories of the United Statas. What 
then? It will be regulated by the law of 1790, which has exclusive and sole juris- 
diction over all the territory not incorporated under any organic or special law. By 
provisions of this law, all crimes and misdemeanors, committed on its soil can be 
tried before the legal authorities of any state or territory to which the offenders 
shall first be brought to trial and punished. Under that law persons have been 
arrested in Kansas, Nebraska and other territories, prior to their organization as 
territories, and hanged for their crimes. The law of 1790 has sole and exclusive 
jurisdiction where no other law of a local character exists, and by repealing the 
organic law of Utah, you give to the general government of the United States the 
whole and sole jurisdiction over the territory." 

The speech of Mr. Douglas was of great interest and importance to the people or 
Utah at that juncture. Mr. Douglas had it in his power to do them great good. 
Because of his personal acquaintance with Joseph Smith and the great body of the 
Mormon people then in Utah, as well as their leaders (for he had known both lead- 
ers and people in Illinois, and those whom he had known in Illinois constituted the 
great bulk of the people in Utah, when he delivered the Springfield speech), he knew 
that the reports carried to the East by vicious and corrupt men were not tru^. He 
knew that these reports in the main were but a rehash of the old exploded charges 
made against Joseph Smith and his followers in Missouri; and he knew them to be 
false by many evidences furnished him by Joseph Smith in the interview of the 
18th of May, 1843, and by the Mormon people at sundry times during his associa- 
tion with them at Nauvoo. He had an opportunity to befriend the innocent, to re- 
fute the calumny cast upon a virtuous community; to speak a word in behalf of 
the oppressed; but the demagogue triumphed over the statesman, the politician, 
over the humanitarian; and to avoid the popular censure which he feared befriend- 
ing the Mormon people would bring to him, he turned his hand against them with 
the result that he did not destroy them but sealed his own doom — in fulfillment of 
the words of the prophet, he felt the weight of the hand of the Almighty upon 
hinu 

There is, and can be no question about the prophecy preceding the event. The 
prophecy was first published in the Deseret News of September 24, 1S56. It was 
afterwards published in England in the Millennial Star, February, 1859. The 
publication in the Deseret Netvs preceding Douglas' Springfield speech, mentioned 
above, {June, 1857) by about one year, and about four years before Douglass was 
nominated for the presidency by the Charleston Democratic convention. 

Moreover, a lengthy review of Mr. Douglas' speech was published in the editor- 
ial columns of the Deseret News in the issue of that paper for September 2nd, 



398 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1843 

1857, of which the following is the closing paragraph addressed directly to Mr 
Douglas: 

"In your last paragraph fof the Springfield speech] you say, 'I have thus pre- 
sented to you plainly and fairly my views of the Utah question;' with at least equal 
plainness and with far more fairness have your views now been commented upon. 
And inasmuch as you were well acquainted with Joseph Smith, and this people, also 
with the character of our maligners, and'did know their allegations were false, but 
must bark with the dogs who were snapping at our heels, to let them know that you 
were a dog with them; and also that you may have a testimony of the truth of the 
assertion that you did know Joseph and his people and the character of their ene- 
mies (and neither class have changed, only as the Saints have grown better andtheii 
enemies worse) ; and also that you may thoroughly understand that you have vol- 
untarily, knowingly and of choice sealed your damnation, and by your own chosen 
course have closed your chance for the presidential chair, through disobeying the 
counsel of Joseph which you formerly sought and prospered by following, and 
that you in common witn us, may testify to all the world that Joseph was a true 
prophet, the following extract from the History of Joseph Smith is again printed 
for your benefit, and is kindly recommended to your careful perusal and most can- 
did consideration." 

Then follows the interview between Joseph Smith and Mr. Douglas as recorded 
in the journal of William Clayton, as published in the News a year before Mr. 
Douglas' Springfield speech, and as now given in this chapter of the History of 
the Church. 

This News editorial boldly accepted the challenge of Mr. Douglas. He raised 
his hand against the followers of Jvseph Smith, despite the warning of the prophet; 
and they in the chief organ of the Church, reproduced the prophecy and told Mr. 
Douglas that he had "sealed his damnation and closejl his chance for the presiden- 
tial chair" through disobeying the counsel of the prophet. The presidential elec- 
tion ot 18G0, and the death of Mr. Douglas in the prime of life, the year following, 
tells the rest. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 399 



CHAPTER XXI. 

-DISCOURSE ON MAKING 
"CALLING" AND "ELECTION" SURE — MISSION TO THE 
SOCIETY ISLANDS OPENED — CHARACTER SKETCH OF THE 
PROPHET, "BOSTON BEE" — TRIAL OF BENJAMIN WIN- 
CHESTER. 

Saturday, May 20, 1843. — Received of Ezra Oakley a 
certificate of deposit in the Fulton Bank, New York, value 
five hundred dollars, and gave receipt payable in lands or 
money ten days from date. 

At court room, and adjourned the case of Samuel 
Puller. 

Corrected and sent to the Times and Seasons the fol- 
lowing: 

The Prophet's Definition of the Word ** Mormon." 

Editor of the Times and Seasons: 

Sir: — Through the medium of your paper I wish to correct an error 
among men that profess to be learned, liberal and wise; and I do it 
the more cheerfully because I hope sober-thinking and sound-reasoning 
people will sooner listen to the voice of truth than be led astray by the 
vain pretensions of the self-wise. 

The error 1 speak of is the definition of the word "Mormon." It has 
been stated that this word was derived from the Greek work mormo. 
This is not the case. There was no Greek or Latin upon the plates 
from which I, through the grace of the Lord, translated the Book of 
Mormon. Let the language of the book speak for itself. 

On the 523rd page of the fourth edition, it reads: "And now, behold 
we have written this record according to our knowledge in the char- 
acters which are called among us the Reformed Egyptian, being handed 
down and altered by us, according to our manner of speech; and if our 



400 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH . [A. D. 1843 

plates had been sufficiently large, we should have written in Hebrew; 
but the Hebrew hath been altered by us also; and if we could have writ- 
ten in Hebrew, behold, ye would have had no imperfection in our rec- 
ord. But the Lord knoweth the thiugs which we have written, aud also 
that none other people knoweth our language; therefore He hath pre- 
pared means for the interpretation thereof." 

Here, then, the subject is put to silence; for "none other people 
knoweth our language; " therefore the Lord, and not man, had to inter- 
pret, after the people were all dead. And, as Paul said, "The world 
by wisdom know not God; 71 so the world by speculation are destitute of 
revelation; and as God in His superior wisdom has always given His 
Saints, wherever he had any on the earth, the same spirit, and that 
spirit, as John says, is the true spirit of prophecy, which is the testi- 
mony of Jesus. I may safely say that the word "Mormon'' stands 
independent of the wisdom and learning of this generation. 

The word Mormon, means literally, more good. 

Yours, 

Joseph Smith. 

Mr. Joseph H. Jackson representing himself as being- 
out of employment and destitute of funds, he desired I 
would employ him and relieve his necessities. I took 
compassion and employed him as a clerk to sell lands, so 
as to give him a chance in the world. 

Sunday, 21. At half-past ten a. m. I arrived at the 

Temple, and had to press my way throught the crowd in 

the aisles to get to the stand, when I remarked 

The Prophet's & 7 _ . 

Reproof of that there were some people who thought it a 
terrible thing that anybody should exercise a 
little power. 1 thought it a pity that anybody should 
give occasion to have power exercised, and requested the 
people to keep out of the aisles; for if they did not, I 
might some time run up and down and hit some of 
them ; and called on two constables to keep the aisles 
\clear. 

After singing and prayer, I read 1st- chapter of 2nd 
Epistle of Peter, and prsached thereon. [The following 
synopsis was written by Dr. Willard Richards.] 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 401 



2 he Prophet's Discourse from II Peter, First Chapter — Reproof of Self" 

Righteousness, 

I do not know when I shall have the privilege of speaking" in a house 
large enough to convene the people. I find my lungs are failing with 
continual preaching in the open air to large assemblies. 

I do not think there have been many good men on the earth since the 
days of Adam; but there was one good man and his name was Jesus. 
Many persons think a prophet must be a great deal better than any- 
body else. Suppose I would condescend — yes, I will call it condescend, 
to be a great deal better than any of you, I would be raised up to the 
highest heaven; and who should I have to accompany me? 

I love that man better who swears a stream as long as my arm yet 
deals justice to his neighbors and mercifully deals his substance to the 
poor, than the long, smooth-faced hypocrite. 

I do not want you to think that I am very righteous, for I am not. 
Gou judges men according to the use they make of the light which 
He gives them. 

"We have a more sure word of prophecy, whereunto you do well to 
take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place. We weie eye 
witnesses of his majesty and heard the voice of his excellent glory." 
And what could be more sure? When He was transfigured on the 
mount, what could be more sure to them? Divines have been quarrel- 
iug for ages about the meaning of this. 

The Prophet's Characterization of Himself. 

I am like a huge, rough stone rolling down from a high mountain; 
and the only polishing I get is when some corner gets rubbed off by 
coming in contact with something else, striking with accelerated force 
against religious bigotry, priestcraft, lawyer-craft, doctor-craft, lying 
editors, suborned judges and jurors, and the authority of perjured 
executives, backed by mobs, blasphemers, licentious and corrupt men 
and women — all hell knocking off: a corner here and a corner there. 
Thus I will become a smooth and polished shaft in the quiver of the 
Almighty, who will give me dominion over all and every one of them, 
when their refuge of lies shall fail, and their hiding place shall be de- 
stroyed, while these smooth-polished stones with which I come in con- 
tact become marred. 

There are three grand secrets lying in this chapter, [II Peter i.] which 
no man can dig out, unless by the light of revelation, and which un- 
locks the whole chapter as the things that are written are only hints 
26 Vol V. 



402 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

of things which existed in the prophet's mind, which are not written 
concerning eternal glory. t 

I am going to take up this subject by virtue of the knowledge of God 
in me, which I have received from heaven. The opinions of men, so far as 
I am concerned, are to me as the crackling of thorns under the pot, or 
the whistling of the wind. I break the ground; I lead the way like 
Columbus when he was invited to a banquet, where he was assigned 
the most honorable place at the table, and served with the ceremonials 
which were observed towards sovereigns. A shallow courtier present, 
who was meanly jealous of him, abruptly asked him whether he thought 
that in case he had not discovered the Indies, there were not other men 
in Spain who would have been capable of the enterprise? Columbus 
made no reply, but took an egg and invited the company to make it 
stand on end. They all attempted it, but in vain: whereupon he struck 
it upon the table so as to break one end, and left it standing on the 
broken part, illustrating that when he had once shown the way to the 
new world nothing was easier than to follow it. 

Paul ascended into the third heavens, and he could understand the 
three principal rounds of Jacob's ladder — the telestial. the terrestrial, 
and the celestial glories or kingdoms, where Paul saw and heard things 
which were not lawful for him to utter. I could explain a hundred fold 
more than I ever have of the glories of the kingdoms manifested to me 
in the vision, were I permitted, and were the people prepared to 
receive them. 

The Lord deals with this people as a tender parent with a child, com- 
municating light and intelligence and the knowledge of his ways as they 
can bear it. The inhabitants of the earth are asleep: they know not 
the day of their visitation. The Lord hath set the bow in the cloud for 
a sign that while it shall be seen, seed time and harvest, summer and 
winter shall not fail; but when it shall disappear, woe to that genera- 
tion, for behold the end cometh quickly. 

Calling and Election to he Made Sure. 

Contend earnestly for the like precious faith with the Apostle Peter, 
"and add to your faith virtue," knowledge, temperance, patience, godli- 
ness, brotherly kindness, charity; "for if these things be in you, and 
abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in 
the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." Another point, after having 
all these qualifications, he lays this injunction upon the people "to make 
your calling and election sure." He is emphatic upon this subject — 
after adding all this virtue knowledge, &c, "Make your calling and 
election sure." What is the secret — the starting point? "According 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 403 

as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto 
life and godliness." How did he obtain all things? Through the 
knowledge of Him who hath called hiro. There could not anything be 
given, pertaining to life and godliness, without knowledge. Woe! woe! 
woe to Christendom! — especially the divines and priests if this be true. 

Salvation is for a man to be saved from all his enemies; for until a 
man can triumph over death, he is not saved. A knowledge of the 
priesthood alone will do this. 

The spirits in the eternal world are like the spirits in this world. When 
those have come into this world and received tabernacles, then died and 
again have risen and received glorified bodies, they will have au ascend- 
ency over the spirits who have received no bodies, or kept not their 
first estate, like the devil. The punishment of the devil was that he 
should not have a habitation like men. The devil's retaliation is, 
he comes into this world, binds up men's bodies, and occupies them 
himself. When the authorities come along, they eject him from a stolen 
habitation. 

The design of the great God in sending us into this world, and organiz- 
ing us to prepare us for the eternal worlds, I shall keep in my own 
bosom at present. 

We have no claim in our eternal compact, in relation to eternal 
things, unless our actions and contracts and all things tend to this end. 
But after all this, you have got to make your calling and election sure. 
If this injunction would lie largely on those to whom it was spoken, 
how much more those of the present generation! 

1st key: Knowledge is the power of salvation. 2nd key: Make your 
calling and election sure. 3rd key: It is one thing to be on the mount 
and hear the excellent voice, &e., &c, and another to hear the voice 
declare to you, You have a part and lot in that kingdom. 



Judge Adams arrived at my house from Springfield. 

Monday, 22. — Called at the office at nine, a m., having 
received letters from Sisters Armstrong complaint 
and Nicholson, of Philadelphia, complain- ff ra " n st win- 
ing of the slanderous conduct of Benjamin chester - 
Winchester; and I directed the Twelve Apostles to act 
upon the matter. 

This morning received a large hickory walking stick 
having a silver head, with the motto "Beware." 

Rode out to my farm; dined at Cornelius P. Lott's; 



404 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

then rode to the Lima road, and recurned home at half- 
past seven, p. rn. 

Wrote the editor of Times and Seasons : 

7 he 'Prophet on Forming lemperance Societies. 

Dear Brother: — In answer to yours of May 4th, concerning the 
Latter-day Saints 7 forming a temperance society, we would say, as Paul 
said — "Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers, but contend for the 
faith once delivered to the* Saints;" and as Peter advises, so say we, 
"Add to your knowledge, temperance." As Paul said he had to be- 
come all things to all men, that he might thereby save some, so must 
the elders of the last days do; and, being sent out to preach the Gospel 
and warn the world of the judgments to come, we are sure, when they 
teach as directed by the Spirit, according to the revelations of Jesus 
Christ, that they will preach the truth and prosper without complaint. 
Thus we have no new commandment to give, but admonish elders and 
members to live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of 
God, lest they come short of the glory that is reserved for the faithful. 

Tuesday, 23 — In conversation with Judge Adams and 
others. 

At eight a. m., rode out to visit the sick. 

Two p. m. Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Parley 
P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Orson Hyde, Wilford Wooodruff, 
John Taylor, George A. Smith, Willard Richards and 
others met in the office. 

Elder Addison Pratt was ordained a seventy and 
blessed and set apart to go to the Society Islands, by 
President Brigham Young, assisted by Heber C. Kimball, 
Orson Hyde, Parley P. Pratt, — that he should be a swift 
messenger to the nations of the earth, have power over 
the elements, and not fear when tempests arise. u Do not 
be hasty and passionate, but acknowledge goodness in all, 
where you find it. Hearken ye, they will say, one to 
another, to this man; and they will carry you and give 
presents, etc., you shall have power over the ship's 
course, and shall return again to this land and rejoice 
with i our family, if you are faithful." 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 405 

Elder Noah Rogers, of the Seventies, was blessed by 
the same brethren, Elder Kimball being mouth. It was 
said that he might have power to discern between good 
and evil, be filled with the power of God, have faith to 
heal the sick, cast out devils, and cause the lame to walk, 
and have the heavens opened, and have an appointment 
from on high, even from God, if he was faithful. u Except 
thou art willing to be led, thou shalt never lead. Thou 
shalt return to this place. " He was set apart to accom- 
pany Brother Addison Pratt to the Pacific Islands. 

Elder Benjamin Grouard was ordained a seventy by the 
same brethren, Orson Hyde mouth. Prayed that the 
angel of God might watch over him and deliver him from 
his enemies and the tempests and troubles of the sea, 
that he might perform the mission with honor to himself, 
and return in safety. 

Elder Knowltou F. Hanks was also set apart to the 
islands. 

Reuben Hedlock, high priest, was blessed and set apart 
to go to England. 

Other Ordinations and Appointments. 

Elder John Cairnes was ordained high priest and set apart to accom- 
pany Brother Hedlock. 

President Young: said to Brother Addison Pratt and his associates: 
We commit the keys of opening the gospel to the Society Islands to 
you, when all the Twelve said, Aye. 

Elder Rogers was appoiated president of the mission. 

Reuben Hedlock's mission was to preside over the churches in Eng- 
land, over the emigration, and over business in general, by vote of the 
quorum. 

Elder Young said he wanted the funds in Liverpool to pay the passage 
of those who were expected to be sent for by Brother John Benbow and 
his wife, on account of moneys lent by him to commence the printing 
of the Book of Mormon, Millennial Star, Hymn Book, etc., and to send 
the worthy poor to this country, and let Brother Hedlock use what is 
necessary for his own convenience; and voted unanimously that the 
foregoing be caried into execution. 

Let the Books of Mormon be sold as fast as they can in England, and 
the avails be retained by Elder Hedlock till further orders. 



406 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Voted that Sister Ann Dawson and her family, William Bradbury 
with his family, Brother Leech, of Preston, and his family, Brother 
Anderson, of Stoke-upon-Trent, and all the poor Saints be brought over 
to this country. 

Voted on reading Elder Ward's letters of March 4th and 16th to the 
First Presidency and Twelve, that the printing in England be stopped, 
according to previous instructions, and Elders Thomas Ward and Amos 
Fielding come to this place, and the funds referred to in Elder Ward's 
letter be expended by Elder Hedlock, as before stated. 



Wednesday, 24. — Elder Addison Pratt presented the 
First contri- tooth of a whale, coral, bones of an Alba- 
Nauvoo to au> tross' wing and skin of a foot, jaw-bone of a 
seum. porpoise, and tooth of a South Sea seal as 

the beginning for a museum in Nauvoo. 

I bought eleven quarter- sections of land from Judge 
Adams, and then rode out on the hill. 

I find in the Boston Bee of this date a letter; and as it 
is so remarkable that any editor will publish anything in 
the col Limns of his paper concerning me or the Saints but 
slander, I take pleasure in transcribing the follow. 



A Character Sketch oj the Prophet — His Doctrine of Inspiration. 

Sir, in bygone years, and long before I heard of the Prophet Joseph 
Smith, and indeed before he had existence, I had formed some very 
curious ideas about the ancient prophets. .From reading their history in 
the Bible, I supposed they must have been men of no ordinary propor- 
tions; or, if so, that there was something about them different from 
other men, by which they might be distinguished at sight. As a matter 
of course, I thought they must have had gray hairs for a covering to 
make them appear very dignified, and beards as long as a Jew's; for 
if they shaved, it would show that they were men; and could I have had 
the privilege of looking at one, 1 should have expected to have seen 
him clad in sheep, goat, bear or wolf skin, wandering about on the 
mountains like the beasts he had robbed of their garment, lodging iu 
the caves and dens of the earth, and subsisting on the fruits and nuts 
of the forest, — a being too holy, too sanctified, too exalted by his high 



A.D. 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 407 

calling, to appear in the habitations or among the society of men, unless 
he had some important message to communicate direct from heaven — 
some revelation or commandment to promulgate to his fellows; and 
then he would just come forth and cry out, like the beasts in the wil- 
derness, with so much sacred sanctity, that everybody would know he 
was a prophet, and if by nothing else, when they saw his nails like birds' 
claws, and his hairs like eagles' feathers and his hands and face as filthy 
as a baboon; for it never occurred to me that clean hands, in adminis- 
tering before the Lord, as mentioned in the scripture, meant anything 
more than a good conscience; and I had never supposed but that a 
man could worship God just as acceptably all covered with dirt, and 
filth and slime, as though he had bathed in Siioam every hour, until I 
heard the Mormon prophet lecturing his people on the subject of neat- 
ness and cleanliness, teaching them that all was clean in heaven, and 
that Jesus was going to make the place of His feet glorious; and if the 
Mormons did not keep their feet out of the ashes, they could not stand 
with Him on Mount Zion. 

I had no thought before but that dirty Jpeople could get to heaven as 
w T ell as clean ones; and that if the priests offered sacrifices with pol- 
luted hands, the fire would cleanse both the offering and the hands that 
offered it. I cannot say how much there may be in scripture to contra- 
dict my views, neither can I vouch for it that the churches of the day 
believe any such doctrine; for I never belonged to any of them, but 
have rather been called an infidel. As to that, I have not altered much. 
I like consistency, find it where I may. 

With all these curious notions I fell into the Mormon settlement, and 
saw the prophet; but having never heard a Mormon preach, you can 
imagine me not quite ready to receive all the impressions incident to an 
interview with such a distinguished personage. But I will give it as I 
find it, hit or miss the faith or feelings of any one. I have had an inter- 
view since my last, and found anything but the truth in the current 
reports. "The Prophet Joseph' 7 (as he is called among his people) 
said in a conversation with a gentleman present, that he no more pro- 
fessed to be a prophet than every man must who professes to be a 
preacher of righteousness or a minister of the new testament. 

To be a minister of Jesus, a man must testify of Jesus; and to testify 
of Jesus, a man must have the spirit of prophecy; for, according to 
John, the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. 

If a man professes to be a minister of Jesus and has not the spirit of 
propheov, he must be a false witness, for he is not in possession of that 
gift which qualifies him for that office; and the difference between him 
and the clergy of this generation is, he claims to be in possession of 



408 ' HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. LA.D. 1843 

that spirit of prophecy which qualifies him to testify of Jesus and the 
Gospel of salvation; and the clergy deny that spirit, even the spirit of 
prophecy, which alone could constitute them true witnesses or testators 
of the Lord Jesus, and yet claim to be true ministers of salvation. 

In this, said he, I am honest, and they are dishonest, and that is the 
difference between us. Were they true and honest witnesses of Jesus 
Christ, they would acknowledge they have the testimony of Him, and 
that is the spirit of prophecy; and every man who possesses that spirit 
is a prophet. 

I, said he, claim no more than what every servant of Christ must 
possess to qualify him for his office, while the clergy of the 19th century 
deny that which alone could constitute what they profess to be. He 
said he did not profess to be a very good man, but acknowledged him- 
self a sinner like other men, or, as all men are, imperfect; and it is 
necessary for all men to grow into the stature of manhood in the 
Gospel. 

I could not help noticing that he dressed, talked and acted like other 
men, and in every respect exactly the opposite of what I had conjured 
up in my imagination a prophet. 

The Mormons have not yet completed their great Temple, and have 
no commodious place of worship; but the apostles and elders preach in 
private houses on the Sabbath and at other times, though I seldom 
attended these latter meetings. But when the weather will admit they 
meet in the grove, or on the rough floor of the basement of the Temple, 
and then the prophet frequently preaches. On one of these occasion 
I heard him preach concerning the prodigal son. 

After naming his text, the prophet remarked that some one had asked 
him the meaning of the expression of Jesus-£]\Ainong those born of 
women, there has not arisen a greater than John;" and said he had 
promised to answer it in public, and he would do it then. It could not 
have been on account of the miracles John performed, for he did no 
miracles; but it was — First, because he was trusted with a divine mis- 
sion of preparing the way before the face of the Lord. Who was 
trusted with such a mission before or since? No man. Second, he was 
trusted and it was required at his hands to baptize the Son of Man. 
Who ever did that? Who ever had so great a privilege or glory? Who 
ever led the Son of God into the waters of baptism, beholding the 
Holy Ghost descend upon him in the sign of a dove? No man. Third, 
John at that time was the only legal administrator holding the keys of 
power there was on earth. The keys, the kingdom, the power, the 
glory had departed from the Jews; and John, the son of Zachariah, by 
the holy anointing and decree of heaven, held the keys of power at that 
time} 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 409 

Elder H. Tate writes that in Cuba, Illinois, the people 
were anxious to hear him, when the Rev. 

Labors of 

John Rigdon, a Campbellite preacher refused Eider h. 
to let him preach in the chapel, because Elder 
Tate was "sent by the authority of Jesus Christ," saying, 
"That recommend will not do, for the world has con- 
demned it already;" but at Pekin Elder Tate baptized 
six in twelve days, and many more were favorable. 

Received a long letter from Thomas Rancliff , complain- 
ing of William and Wilson Law and Dr. complaints 
Foster's swindling him, which is another ex- Liws S and o^ 
ample that people will not obey counsel, al- Foster - 
though it was so pointedly made known to the people on 
the 13th of April last. 

Thursday , 25. — Sent William Clayton to Carthage to 
redeem the city lots on the Galland tract, which had been 
sold for taxes. 

Dr. Imbert, Messrs. Chastan and Manlan, missionaries, 
with seventy Christians were beheaded, and one hundred 
and eighty strangled in Korea, East Asia. 

The town of Tallahassee, Florida, was destroyed by 
fire. ^ 

Friday, 26. — At five p. m. I met in counsel in the 
upper room, with my brother Hyrum, Brigham Young, 
Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, Judge James 
Adams, Bishop Newel K. Whitney and William Law, and 
gave them their endowments and also instructions in the 
priesthood on the new and everlasting covenant, &c. 

Wrote a letter of instructions to Reuben Hedlock. 

Saturday, 27. — In the morning received visitors. 

At two p. m. I met brother Hyrum, the Twelve, Judge 
Adams, Bishop Whitney and others, in council to investi- 
gate the conduct of Beniamin Winchester, 

° Benjamin 

charges having been preferred against him by Winchester 
letter from Sybella Armstrong and others in 
Philadelphia, Sisters Jarman and Adams. George J. 
Adams and others gave their testimony, when they disfel- 



•±10 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1845 

lowshiped Winchester, and took his license until he made 
satisfaction to the aggrieved parties. 

[Extract from Wilford's Woodruff's journal.] 

Elder Wilford Woodruffs Minutes of the Investigation of Benjamin 

Winchester. 

A rainy day. 

In the afternoon I met in council with the Twelve and First Presi- 
dency, when the case of Benjamin Winchester was brought up on trial 
for improper conduct, slandering the Saints in Philadelphia, for reject- 
ing the counsel of Hyrum, Joseph and the Twelve, and tearing to 
pieces the Saints instead of building them up. 

Hyrum pleaded for mercy, Joseph for justice, and the Twelve decided 
according to testimony; and in all we had an interesting time. Elder 
Winchester was refractory and out of order. President Joseph Smith 
wished the Twelve or president of the quorum to call the house to 
order. 

Several letters were read touching the subject; after which Elder 
Winchester made a lengthy speech trying to justify himself. Was fol- 
followed by President Hyrum Smith, who pleaded in behalf of Win- 
chester on the side of mercy. 

Elder George J. Adams gave his testimony against Winchester; then 
Elder Winchester followed Adams, and both spoke several times. 
Then President Joseph Smith arose and rebuked Elder Winchester in 
th« sharpest manner; said he had a lying spirit and had lied about him, 
and told him of many of his errors. 

After hearing the testimony, Elder Brigham Young, president of the 
quorum of the Twelve, said he had made up his mind, and his decision 
was that Elder Winchester should give up his license and cease preach- 
ing until he should reform. 

President Hyrum Smith said he should not like to have such a deci- 
sion given without another trial and giving Elder Winchester a chance 
to get more testimony if he could. 

President Brigham Young said he should then prefer to have the 
case turned over tojthe high council. 

President Joseph Smith said it was not the business of the high 
council. They could not try him. It belonged to the Twelve, and 
them alone; for it was concerning matters abroad, and not in Nauvoo. 
The high council was to try cases that belong to the stake, and the 
Twelve to regulate the churches and elders abroad in all the world; and 
Elder Winchester's case comes under the jurisdiction of the Twelve 
and theirs alone. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 411 

President Hyrum Smith urged that the case should be put off until 
tomorrow. President Joseph Smith said that the case might be put off 
until tomorrow at ten o'clock, if it would do anybody any good. 

President Brigham Young arose and spoke in the majesty of his 
calling; and among other remarks, said that his mind was made up, 
and that the remarks of Brother Hyrum or of Brother Joseph had not 
altered it. As for himself, he would not sit upon the case another day. 
He considered the course Brother Winchester had taken an insult upon 
his office and calling as an apostle of Jesus Christ, aud he would not 
bear it. As for the rest of the Twelve, they might do as they pleased. 
As for himself, he would not submit to it. Benjamin Winchester has 
despised and rejected the counsel of the Presidency and the Twelve — 
has said they had no jurisdiction over him in Philadelphia, and to say 
where he should go, &c. But he aud others will find there is power in 
the Twelve. We know through whom we have received our power and 
who are our benefactors, and we are thankful for it. Benjamin Win- 
chester has never for the first time received our counsel, but has gone 
contrary to it. No one is safe in his hands. He calls Hyrum an old 
granny, and slanders everybody.' He says there is a contradiction be- 
tween Hyrum and the Twelve. There is no contradiction between 
Hyrum and the Twelve — is there, Brother Hyrum? [Hyrum answered 
"No."] 

After Brigham Young closed, President Joseph Smith said he would 
give us a little counsel, if we saw fit to accept it. He thought it proper 
for us to silence Elder Winchester, take his license and have him bring 
his family to Nanvoo; and if he would not do that, let him go out of the 
Church. 

It was then moved and seconded that Elder Winchester be silenced, 
and erive up his license, and come with his family to Nauvoo. The 
motion was carried unanimously. 

Brother Joseph theu addressed the Twelve, and said that in all our 
counsels, especially while on trial of anyone, we should see and observe 
all things appertaining to the subject, and discern the spirit by which 
either party was governed. We should be in a situation to understand 
every spirit and judge righteous judgment and not be asleep. We 
should keep order and not let the council be imposed upon by unruly con- 
duct. The Saints need not think because I am familiar with them and am 
playful and cheerful, that I am ignorant of what is going on. Iniquity 
of any kind cannot be sustained in the Church, aud it will not fare well 
where I am; for I am determined while I do lead the Church, to lead it 
right. 

Brother Joseph further remarked, concerning Elder Adams, that he 
had given satisfaction to him concerning the thing whereof he was 



412 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

accused. He bad confessed all. wherein he had done wrong, and had 
asked for mercy, and he had taken the right course to save himself ; 
that he would now begin anew in the Church. 

After much instruction was given from Joseph, the council 
adjourned. 

I then instructed the Twelve to investigate the condi- 
tion of the whole Philadelphia church while in council. 

List of Persons to be Helped to Immigrate to Nauvoo. 

Voted that the following persons be assisted to emigrate from Eng- 
land — viz., Mr. Elizabeth Pixton, Mrs. Sarah Taylor, Jeremiah Taylor, 
Mrs. Mary Greenhalgh, Mrs. Elizabeth Clayton and two children, Hugh 
Patrick and family, Mrs. Ann Farrar and three children, Maria Bar- 
rows and children, Alice Bailey and two children, William Player's 
family, Prudence Parr and six children, Rebecca Partington. 

A tremendous rain-storm all day, commencing with 
thunder in the morning. 

A petition for* the repeal of the parliamentary union, 
with England — representing four hundred and fifty thou- 
sand persons — was sent from Menagh, Ireland. 

Sunday, 28.— Cold, rainy day. 

At five p. m. I met with brother Hyrum, Brigham 
Endowments Young, Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, 
at Nauvoo. Newel K. Whitney, and James Adams, in the 
upper room to attend to ordinances and counseling. 
Prayed that James Adams might be delivered from his 
enemies, and that Orrin P. Rockwell might be delivered 
from prison, and that the Twelve be prospered in collect- 
ing means to build the Nauvoo House. 

Of the Twelve Apostles chosen in Kirtland, and 
, r ^ ordained under the hands of Oliver Cowdery, 

Record of the J ' 

First Twelve David Whitmer and myself, there have been 

in Relations . . . _ . 

with the but two but what have hrted their heel 

against me— namely Brigham Young and 
Heber C. Kimball. 

Monday, 29. — At nine a. m., I met in council with 
brother Hyrum, Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 413 

Willard Richards, Newel K. Whitney, and James Adams. 

Singing, and prayer by Elder Brigham Young. Con- 
versation, instruction and teaching concerning the things 
of God. Had a pleasant interview. 

Two p. m., in mayor's court. Tried a case — "The 
People vs. Thompson," for assault. Fined Thompson 
three dollars. 

Gave instructions to have the account of the Lawrence 
estate made out. 

Judge James Adams gave a deed of eleven quarter 
sections of land on the prairie to the trustee-in-trust. 

Six p. m., the Twelve Apostles met and directed the 
following to be published in the Times and Seasons. 

Special Message to the Saints in Philadelphia. 

To the Church in Philadelphia: 

All the members of that branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter-day Saints which is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, who 
are desirous of doing the will of heaven and of working out their own 
salvation by keeping the laws of the celestial kingdom, are hereby 
instructed and counseled to remove from thence without delay and 
locate themselves in the city of Nauvoo, where God has a work for 
them to accomplish. 

Done at Nauvoo the 20th day of May, 1843, agreeable to the instruc- 
tions of the First Presidency. 

By order of the quorum of the Twelve, 

Brigham Young, 

President of the quorum. 
Willard Richards, Clerk. 

Appointments by t.he Quorum of the Twelve. 

Elder James Sloan, to Ireland. Elder Benjamin Brown, accompanied 
by Elder Jesse W. Crosby, to the proviuce of Nova Scotia. Elder 
Edwin W. Webb, to Galena. Elder Issac Chase, to the Eastern States, 
Elder Stephen Abbott and Charles E. Spencer to Wisconsin territory, 
Elder Issac Thompson to accompany them. 

Willard Richards, Clerk. 

Pleasant, but cool after the rain. 

Tuesday, 30.— In the office from nine till noon exam- 



414 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

ining Nauvoo stock, and transacting business with the 
Twelve Apostles, and taking bonds from Brigham Young, 
Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, Wilford 
Woodruff, and George A. Smith, of which I insert one as 
follows : 

Form oj Bond Executed by Brigham Young et al. to the Prophet. 

Know all men by these presents, that we, Brigham Young and John 
M. Bernhisel, are held and firmly bound unto Joseph Smith, as sole 
trustee-in -trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 
in the penal sum of two thousand dollars, lawful money of the United 
States; for the payment of which sum, well and truly to be made, we 
bind ourselves, our heirs, assigns and administrators firmly by these 
presents. 

Dated at Nauvoo, this 30th day of May, 1843. 

The condition of the above obligation is such that the above bounden 
Brigham Young who has been appointed an agent to collect funds for 
the Nauvoo House Association and for the Temple now buildiug in 
the city of Nauvoo, shall faithfully pay to the said trustee- «• trust as 
aforesaid, all moneys that he may colleot for either house, then this 
obligation be null and void, otherwise to remain in full force and 
virtue. 

Signed, sealed and delivered the day and year first above written. 

Brigham Young, [L. S.] 

John M. Bernhisel, [L. S ] 

And directed that receipts be also written for the 
Nauvoo stock as follows : 

Form of Receipt J or Stock Certificate. 

Received May 30th, 18-43, of Joseph Smith, Sole Trustee-in-Trust 
for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-'day Saints, three hundred stock 
certificates of Nauvoo House Association, numbering as follows: 

200 numbering 1 to 200 inclusive, dated Feb. S, 1841. 

36 t4 125 to 160 " " 5, * 

36 " 376 to 411 " ; " " 10, " 

28 " 5 to 32 " tl " 6, 4t 

300 shares value $15,000, 

Brigham Young. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 415 

Afterwards I superintended the preparation of papers to 
settle the Lawrence business. My brother Hyrum bap- 
tized Jonathan C. Wright and ordained him an elder. 

Wednesday, 31. — Called at the office and court room 
before breakfast and conferred with Dr. Richards on busi- 
ness. 

City council met at ten a.m. and gave instructions to a 
committee to draft an ordinance in relation to the ferry. 
Rode out in the afternoon on the prairie with Mr. Hous- 
ton, the Speaker of the House of Representatives for Mis- 
souri, Judge Sylvester Emmons, Lawyer Marr and 0. C. 
Skinner, and William Clayton. 

At six p. m. met with the city council, when the ordi- 
nance in relation to the ferry passed its second reading. 

Signed letters of recommendation to James Brown and 
Peter Haws to collect funds in Mississippi and Alabama. 
Elder Brigham Young moved out of his log cabin into a 
new brick house, small, but comfortable and convenient, 
The steamer Amaranth landed at Nauvoo the Saints 
who had left Liverpool in the Yorkshire under the care of 
Elders Thomas Bullock and Richard Rushton, all well; 
and also some Saints who had left there more recently in 
the Stvanton. 

New T s arrived that General Charles Napier gained a bril- 
liant victory near Hyderabad, after a dreadful combat of 
three hours. The Belochee army of twenty-two thousand 
men were completely overthrown by twenty-seven hundred 
English troops, who sustained a loss of only two hundred 
and fifty killed and wounded, including eighteen officers. 
Four hundred and fifty clergymen have lately seceded 
from the Church of Scotland, being nearly one-half of the 
whole number. 



416 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D, 18*3 



CHAPTER XXII. 

FORMS OF CREDENTIALS OF THE TWELVE — CONFERENCE AT 
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND — DEATH OF JUDGE ELIAS HIG- 

THE PROPHET. 



BEE — "THE PURPOSE OF GATHERING," A DISCOURSE BY 



Thursday, June 1 7 I843. — Presided in the city council, 
which, passed u An ordinance to establish a ferry across 
the Mississippi river at the city of Nauvoo." 

And also passed " An ordinance respecting mad dogs 
and other animals." 

I addressed the council, and criticised James Sloan's 
account current charging for room, candles, fuel, etc., 
etc., as extras. Willard Richards, Newel K. Whitney, 
and William Clayton [were engaged] all day preparing 
papers for the settlement of the Lawrence estate. 

I gave the following recommend to Elder Brighani 
Young. 

Credentials of Brig ham Young. 

Jo all Saints and Honorable Men of the Earth, Greeting: 

Dear Brethren and Friends: — I, Joseph Smith, a servant of the 
Lord, and trustee-in-trust for the Temple of the Lord at Nauvoo, do 
hereby certify that the bearer hereof, Brigham Young, an elder and 
one of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 
Saints, has deposited with me his bond and security, to my full satis 
faction, according to the resolation of the conference held in this city 
on the 6th day of April last. 

He, therefore, is recommended to all Saints and honorable people as 
a legal agent to collect funds for the purpose of building the Nauvoo 
House and Temple of the Lord. Confident that he will honor this high 
trust, as well as ardently fulfill his commission as a messenger of peace 
and salvation, as one of the Lord's noble men, I can fervently say, May 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 417 

the Lord clear his way before hiui and bless him, and bless those that 
obey his teachings, wherever there are ears to hear and hearts to feel. 

He is the friend of Israel, and worthy to be received and entertained 
as a man of God; yea, he has, as had the ancient apostles, the good 
word, even the good word that leadeth unto eternal life. 

Wherefore, brethren and friends, while you have the assurance of 
the integrity, fidelity and ability of this servant of the living God, and 
trusting that your hearts and energies will be enlivened and deeply en- 
gaged in the building of those houses directed by revelation for the 
salvation of all Saints, and that you will not rest where you are until all 
things are prepared before you, and you are gathered home with the 
rest of Israel to meet your God, I feel strong in the belief and have a 
growing expectation that you will not withhold any means in your 
power that can be used to accomplish this glorious work. 

Finally, as one that greatly desires the salvation of men, let me re- 
mind you all to strive with godly zeal for virtue, holiness, and the com- 
mandments of the Lord. Be good, be wise, be just, be liberal; and 
above all, be charitable, always abounding in all good works. And may 
health, peace and the love of God our Father, and the grace of Jesus 
Christ our Lord be and abide with you all, is the sincere prayer of your 
devoted brother and friend in the everlasting Gospel, 

Joseph Smith. 
City of Nauvoo, June 1, 1843. 

Similar letters were given to Elders Heber C. Kimball, 
Orson Pratt, Orson Hyde, Wilford Woodruff and George 
A. Smith. 

Signed a conveyance of Eric Rhodes' bonds to Joseph 
Smith to William Clayton. 

Gave a letter of instruction to George J. Adams, who 
is to accompany Elder Orson Hyde on his mission to 
Russia. 

Elders Addison Pratt, Benjamin F. Grouard, Knowl- 
ton h\ Hanks and JSToah Rogers started on their mission 
for the Society Islands at two p. m., on the steamer 
Sarah Ann, for St. Louis. 

The quorum of the Twelve Apostles met in council in 
my office, to make arrangements to start on their mis- 
sion to collect funds for the Temple and Nauvoo House. 
Friday, 2. — Closed the contract whereby I gave two 
notes for SI, 375, and became half owner of the steam- 

27 Vol. v. 



418 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. fA.D. 1843 

boat Maid of Iowa. Continued in the office with Captain 
Dan Jones most of the morning, which was very rainy. 

In the afternoon rode out in the city to invite several 
friends to take an excursion on Maid of Iowa tomorrow, 
and had a long conversation with a Presbyterian 
minister. 

Outrages were committed in Wales on public property, 
under an organized band called "Rebecca and her 
daughters." 

Saturday, 3. — This morning, I, with my family and a 
large company of brethren and sisters, 

An Excur- ° ± ; 

siononthe started for Quincy, on a pleasure voyage on 
the steamboat Maid of Iowa, had a fine band 
of music in attendance, and arrived there at about one 
p. m. 

The accounts of the Lawrence estate were presented to 
the probate judge x to which he made objections, when 
a new account was made out by William Clayton, which we 
made oath to, when the accounts were accepted by the 
probate judge. 

At five p. m. started on our return, but tied up at 
Keokuk, at one a. m. on account of a severe storm until 
daylight, when we started home and were glad to arrive 
in Nauvoo at seven a. m. of the 4th. 

Sunday, 4. — At ten a. m. I engaged in conversation 
with Mr. De Wolf, a clergyman of the Episcopal order, 
who was much of a gentleman. 

Minutes of a Conference Held at Manchester, England, June 4, 1S43. 

A conference was commenced in the New CornExchange, Manchester, 
and by adjournment moved into the large room at Hayward's Hotel, 
Bridge street. The assembly was large, although the weather was un- 
favorable. 

Elder Thomas Ward was president, and William Walker, clerk. 
President Ward and Elders Hiram Clark and Amos Fielding preached 
giving excellent teachings on the plan of salvation, and the Lord's Sup- 
per. There were present six high priests, fifty-eight elders, sixty-four 
priests, forty teachers, ten deacons. 



A.D. 1843J 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



41U 



The representations of the churches being nest called for, the follow- 
ing statements were made: 







«3 












m 












M 


u 




V 

a 
<u 

ft 


(U O 


Conferences 


Presidents 


a 


Oh 

-a 

a 


u 

CD 

3 


CO 

<u 
'u * 

Oh 


<D 

O 
OS 

H 


2Q 


Manchester 


Charles Miller. . . 


1481 




38 


75 


54 


17 


30 


Liverpool 


Thomas Ward . . . 


558 




31 


30 


14 


10 


4 


Preston 


William Snalem.. 


655 


i 


18 


18 


18 


2 


15 


London 


William W.Major 


"58 




""3 


"9 


"3 






West End 




" East End Clerkenwell 




150 

22 




3 
1 


9 
2 


2 


2 




" Newburv 






" Woolwich 




30 




1 










Macclesfield 


James Galley 


250 




11 


28 


15 


9 


6 


Birmingham 


Cooper Royle 


509 




32 


32 


18 


10 


16 


Staffordshire 




377 




38 


59 


14 


10 


12 


Edinburgh 


Henry McEwan. . 


302 




10 


10 


8 


2 


4 


Garway 


Charles Taysum.. 


17G 




4 


5 


7 


2 


D 


Glasgow 


Peter McCue 


721 




24 


32 


28 


16 


14 


Frooines' Hill 




784 




21 


47 


21 


9 


36 


Carlisle; 


John Parker. .. 


154 




8 


19 


8 3 


4 


Sheffield 


James Carigan... 
Robert Parker. .. 


128 
240 




4 
8 


9 
15 


3 
11 


3 
6 




Bradford 


7 


Bedford 


Thomas Margetts 


242 




14 


20 


8 


4 


10 


Ireland, Hillsborough 




55 




3 


?, 


a 


1 




Lincolnshire, Louth 




14 




1 


2 


1 






Wigan 




5 














Nottingham 

Worcestershire 




5 














Smith 
















" Earls Common 




61 




3 


4 


1 






" Penvin 




19 




1 


2 


1 






" Broomsgrove . 




36 




1 


3 










Total 


7038| 2 


278 


432 


237 


106 


163 



The sacrament was administered in the afternoon. 

Monday, o. — The following persons devoted themselves 
to the work of the ministry —viz., Osmond Shaw, Thomas 
Shaw, Samuel Downes, Elders William Speakman and 
George Eyres. 

The following persons were then ordained elders — viz., 
R. Cowen, T. Pratt, Samuel Downe, John Williams, Peter 
McCue, Joseph Walker, and Levi Eigg. 

Priests: J. Flint, Joseph Smith, J. Nightingale, J. Lee, 
Thomas Jackson, Samuel Wells, Charles Turner, Chris- 
topher Riding, George Robinson. 

Teachers: George Hewitt, Thomas Jennings. 

Elder Barradale was appointed to preside over Chelten- 



420 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. L*.D. '843 

ham branch; Elder Eudd, over the Nottingham circuit; 
Elder Pritchard, to labor in Derbyshire; Elder Speakman, 
with Elder Eobert Parker, in the Bradford conference ; 
Osmond Shaw, Addingham, Yorkshire; Elder George 
Eyers, in -Lincolnshire and Hull, in connection with Elder 
Henry Ouerdon and Elder Samuel Downes, in Derbyshire, 
with Elder Hibbert. 

Tuesday, 0. — I rode out to the Prairie Farm. 

Earthquake occurred in Java, destroying Nias and bury- 
ing its inhabitants in the ruins. 

The total national debt of Europe is estimated at $10,- 
499,710,000. A century ago the European treasury was 
comparatively unencumbered. 

Wednesday, 7. — Concluded a settlement with J. W. 
Coolidge. Gave him a deed for city lot. 

Visited Elias Higbee, who was very sick. 

John Workman and a company of 30 Saints, mostly his 
own family, arrived from Tennessee. 

Thursday, 8. — This morning, about daybreak, Elder 
Elias Higbee died at his residence near the Temple.* 

We copy the following from page 315 of the Law of the 
Lord— t 

* He was son of Isaac and Sophia Higbee, born 23rd October, 1795, in Galloway, 
Gloucester county, New Jersey. In 1803, removed with his parents to Clermont 
county, Ohio. At the age of 22 he married Sarah Ward, and removed to Cincinnati. 
He received the gospel in the spring of 1832, and in the summer of the same year 
went to Jackson county, Missouri, where he was baptized, and returned to Cincin- 
rati, and was ordained an elder under the hands of his brother, Isaac Higbee, 20th 
February, 1833. Arrived in Jackson county with his family in March, and was 
driven by the mob to Clay county in the fall of 1833; ordained a high priest under 
the hands of Araasa M. Lyman, by order of the high council in Clay county. 26th 
March, 1835, started on a mission, preaching the gospel through the states of Mis- 
souri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Arriving at Kirtland, he labored on the Temple 
until it was finished, and received his edowment therein. In the spring of 1836, 
returned to his family in Missouri; removed them to Caldwell county, where he 
was appointed County Judge. 

Judge Higbee was also appointed to go with the Prophet to Washington to plead 
the cause of the Saints before congress, and perhaps will be chiefly remembered for 
his earnest but temperate zeal in their cause; also for the courage and judgment 
he manifested before the Senate Committee on Judiciary, before which the hearing 
was had. The case was conducted by Judge Higbee, practically alone. See his 
reports to the Prophet, Vol. IV, pp. 81-91. His course approved, Ibid. p. 96. 

t The "Law of the Lord" is a manuscript book kept personally by the Prophet, 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 421 

JUDGE ELIAS HIGBEE. 

He has been sick orjly five days of cholera morbus and inflammation, 
which produced mortification, and his d^ath was unexpected by all. 
His loss will be universally lamented, not only by his family, but by a 
large circle of brethren who have long witnessed his integrity and up- 
rightness, as well as a life of devotedness to the cause of truth. He has 
endured a great share of persecution and tribulation for the cause of 
Christ, both during the Missouri troubles and other times. On the Gth 
oay of October, 1S40, he was appointed one of the committee to build 
the Temple in Nauvoo, which office he maintained during his life. In 
that station he has shown a disposition to do right at all times, and al- 
ways manifested a great anxiety for the prosperity of the Temple as 
well as the work at large. He has left a large family to mourn his de- 
parture; but he is gone to his rest for a little season, even until the 
morning of the resurrection, when he will again come forth and strike 
hands with the faithful, and share the glory of the kingdom of God for 
ever and ever. 

Emma was sick. 

In the afternoon, rode out on horseback; called on Wil- 
lard Richards, who was at work in his garden; asked him 
who gave him leave to occupy that lot. He answered, 
"Your honor?'' when I replied, "You are perfectly wel- 
come to it, so far as I am concerned;" then continued my 
journey to the prairie. 

Friday , 0. — Rode out to show Mr. Lewis some lots in 
the city. 

Continued most of the day with Emma, who was very 
sick. 

Saturday, 10. — At home. Brothers Livingston and 
Goodrich, from Peterboro, New Hampshire, visited me 
about establishing a cotton factory in Nauvoo. 

City council met and passed ' ' An ordinance to regulate 
the rates of toll at the ferry in the city of Nauvoo/' which 
is published in the Neighbor. 

Several petitions were presented to repeal the hog law, 
which were rejected. 

wherein, with other specially valuable documents, he recorded character sketches 
arid the good deeds of the faithful Saints; also the blessings he pronounced upon 
them. See this Vol., pp. 108, 124-128. 



422 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |A.D. 1843 

The court-martial ordered an arsenal to be built in the 
city of Nauvoo, for the security of the public arms; and 
also ordered Brigadier- General Charles C. Rich to organ- 
ize 'the 2nd battalion, 1st regiment, 2nd cohort, into a 
regiment of light infantry, to be the 5th regiment, 2nd 
cohort. 

To show the wickedness and rascality of John C. Ben- 
nett and the corrupt conspiracy formed against me in 
Missouri and Illinois, I insert the following under date of 
the letter: — 

Letter of Samuel C. Owens to Governor Ford — Informing the Latter of an 
Indictment Against Joseph Smith. 

Independence, Mo., June 10, 1843. 
To His Excellency Governor Ford. 

Sir*. — For the last three months I have been corresponding- with Dr. 
John C. Bennett relative to one certain Joe Smith, Mcrmon Prophet* 
etc , of your state. In several of Dr. Bennett's letters to me, he informs 
me that my name is known to you. Taking this for granted authorizes 
me without hesitation to write you full upon a subject that the people 
of this part of our state feel themselves vitally interested in. 

At the last term of the Circuit court of Daviess county, an indictment 
was found by the grand jury of said couuty against Joseph Smith for 
treason against this state. The necessary papers are now on their way to 
Governor Reynolds, who, on the receipt thereof, I have no doubt, will 
make a requisition on you for the apprehension and delivery of said 
Smith to the bearer, Mr. Joseph Reynolds, who goes as a special agentf 
to attend to this business; and I am in hopes that, so soon as the proper 
papers come to hand, you will take that course that will secure this im- 
poster and have him delivered over to Mr. Reynolds. 

Dr. Bennett further writes me that he has made an arrangement with 
Harmon T. Wilson, of Hancock couuty (Carthage, seat of justice) iu 
whose hands he wishes the writ that shall be issued by you to be put. 
From the tenor of his letters I am induced to believe that he has made 
the same suggestions to you. The only wish of the people of this state 
is, that this man, Joseph Smith, may be brought to that justice which 
the magnitude .of his crime merits. 

Respectfully your obedient servant, 
Sam. C. Owens, 
[Commander in-chief of the mob in Jackson county]. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 423 

A steamship of iron, called the Great Britain^ was built 
at Bristol, England, at a cost of 90,000 pounds. She has 
six masts, and is 320 feet in length on deck, and is said 
to be the largest vessel that has been built since the days 
of Noah. 

Sunday. 11. — Ten a. m., meeting at the stand. 

The following report is from the journals of Elders 
Willard Richards and Wilford Woodruff: — 

The Prophet's Discourse — The Purpose oj the Gathering of Israel. 

A large assembly of the Saints met at the Temple stand. Hymn by 
the choir. Prayer by Elder Parley P. Pratt, and singing. 

President Joseph Smith remarked — *'I am a rough stone. The sound 
of the hammer and chisel was never heard on me until the Lord took 
me in hand. I desire the learning and wisdom of heaven alone. I have 
not the least idea, if Christ should come to the earth and preach such 
rough things as He preached to the Jews, but that this generation would 
reject Him for being so rough." 

He then took for his text the 37th verse of 23rd chapter of Matthew — 
"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets and stonest 
them which are sent unto thee; how often* would I have gathered thy 
children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her 
wings, and ye would not." 

This subject was presented to me since I came to the stand. What 
was the object of gathering the Jews, or the people of God in any age 
of the world? I can never find much to say in expounding a text. A 
man never has half so much fuss to unlock a door, if he has a key, as 
though he had not, and had to cut it open with his jack-knife. 

The main object was to build unto the Lord a house whereby He could 
reveal unto His people the ordinances of His house and the glories of His 
kingdom, and teach the people the way of salvation; for there are cer- 
tain ordinances and principles that, when they are taught and practiced, 
must be done in a place or house built for that purpose. 

It was the design of the councils of heaven before the world was, that 
the principles and laws of the priesthood should be predicated upon the 
gathering of the people in every age of the world. Jesus did everything 
to gather the people, and they would not be gathered, and He therefore 
poured out curses upon them. Ordinances instituted in the heavens be- 
fore the foundation of the world, in the priesthood, for the salvation of 
men, are not to be altered or changed. All must be saved on the same 
principles. 



424 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

It is for the same purpose that God gathers together His people in the 
last days, to build unto the Lord a house to prepare them for the ordi- 
nances aud endowments, washings and anointings, etc. One of the or- 
dinances of the house of the Lord is baptism for the dead. God decreed 
before the foundation of the world that that ordinance should be ad- 
ministered in a font prepared for that purpose in the house of the Lord. 
"This is only your opinion, sir," says the sectarian. ***** 

If a man gets a fullness of the priesthood of God, he has to get it in 
the same way that Jesus Christ obtained it, and that was by keeping 
all the commandments and obeying all the ordinances of the house of 
the Lord. 

Where there is no change of priesthood, there is no change of ordi- 
nances, says Paul, if God has not changed the ordinances and the priest- 
hood. Howl, ye sectarians! If he has, when and where has He revealed 
it? Have ye turned revelators? Then why deny revelation? 

Many men will say, "I will never forsake you, but will stand by you 
at all times." But the moment you teach them some of the mysteries 
of the kingdom of God that are retained in the heavens and are to be 
revealed to the children of men when they are prepared for them, they 
will be the first to stone you and put you to death. It was this same 
principle that crucified the Lord Jesus Christ, and will cause the people 
to kill the prophets iu this generation. 

Many things are insoluble to the children of men in the last days: for 
instance, that God should raise the dead, and forgetting that things 
have been hid from before the foundation of the world, which are to be 
revealed to babes in the last days. 

There are a great many wise men and women too in our midst who 
are too wise to be taught; therefore they must die in their ignorance, 
and in the resurrection they will find their mistake. Many seal up the 
door of heaven by saying, So far God may reveal and I will believe. 

All men who become heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ 
will have to receive the fulness of the ordinances of his kingdom; and 
those who will not receive all the ordinances will come short of the full- 
ness of that glory, if they do not lose the whole. 

I will say something about the spirits in prison. There has been much 
said by modern divines about the words of Jesus (when on the cross) 
to the thief , saying, "This day shalt thou be with me in paradise." 
King James' translators make it out to say paradise. But what is para- 
dise? It is a modern word: it does not answer at all to the original 
word that Jesus made use of. Find the original of the word paradise. 
You may as easily find a needle in a haymow. Here is a chance for 
battle, ye learned men. There is nothing in the original word in Greek 
from which this was taken that signifies paradise; but it was— This day 



AD. 1843J HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 425 

thou shalt be with me in the world of spirits: then I will teach you all 
about it and answer your inquiries. And Peter says he went and 
preached to the world of spirits (spirits in prison, I Peter, 3rd chap., 
19th verse), so that they who would receive it could have it answered 
by proxy by those who live on the earth, etc. 

The doctrine of baptism for the dead is clearly shown in the New 
Testament; and if the doctrine is not good, then throw the New Testa- 
ment away; bat if it is the word of God, then let the doctrine be 
acknowledged; and it was the reason why Jesus said unto the Jews, 
"How oft would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen 
gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!*' — that they 
might attend to the ordinances of baptism for the dead as well as other 
ordinances of the priesthood, and receive revelations from heaven, and 
be perfected in the things of the kingdom of God — but they would not. 
This was the case on the day of Pentecost: those blessings were poured 
out on the disciples on that occasion. God ordained that He would save 
the dead, and would do it by gathering His people together. 

It always has been when a man was sent of God with the priesthood 
and he began to preach the fullness of the gospel, that he was thrust 
out by his friends, who are ready to butcher him if he teach things 
which they imagine to be wrong; and Jesus was crucified upon this 
principle. 

I will now turn linguist. There are many things in the Bible which 
do not, as they now stand, accord with the revelations of the Holy 
Ghost to me. 

I will criticise a little further. There has been much said about the 
word hell, and the sectarian world have preached much about it, de- 
scribing it to be a burning lake of fire and brimstone. But what is hell? 
It is another modern term, and is taken from hades. I'll hunt after 
hades as Pat did for the woodchuck. 

Hades, the Greek, or Shaole, the Hebrew: these two significations 
mean a world of spirits. Hades, Shaole, paradise, spirits in prison, are 
all one; it is a world of spirits. 

The righteous and the wicked all go to the same world of spirits until 
the resurrection. "I do not think so," says one. If you will go to my 
house any time, I will take my lexicon and prove it to you. 

The great misery of departed spirits in the world of spirits, where 
they go after death, is to know that they come short of the glory that 
others enjoy and that they might have enjoyed themselves, and they 
are their own accusers. "But," says one, "I believe in one universal 
heaven and hell, where all go, and are all alike, and equally miserable 
or equally happy." 

What! where all are huddled together — the honorable, virtuous, and 



420 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |A.I). 184S 

murderers, and whoremongers, when it is written that they shall be- 
judged according to the deeds done in the body? But St. Paul informs- 
us of three glories and three heavens. He knew a man that was caught 
up to the third heavens. Now, if the doctrine of the sectarian world, 
that there is but one heaven, is true, Paul, what do you tell that lie for, 
and say there are three? Jesus said unto His disciples, "In my Father's^ 
house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. I 
go to prepare a place for you, and I will come and receive you to my- 
self, that where I am ye may be also." 

Any man may believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and 
be happy in that belief, and yet not obey hid commandments, and at 
last be cut down for disobedience to the Lord's righteous require- 
ments. 

A man of God should be endowed with wisdom, knowledge, and 
understanding, in order to teach and lead the people of God. The sec- 
tarian priests are blind, and they lead the blind, and they will all fall 
into the ditch together. They build with hay, wood, and stubble, on. 
the old revelations, without the true priesthood or spirit of revelation. 
If I had time, I would dig into hell, hades, shaole, and tell what exists 
there. 

There is much said about God and the Godhead. The scriptures say 
there are Gods many aud Lords many, but to us there is but one living* 
and true God, and the heaven of heavens could not contain him; for he 
took the liberty to go into other heavens. The teachers of the day say- 
that the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Ghost is God, and 
they are all in one body and one God. Jesus prayed that those that the* 
Father had given him out of the world might be made one in them, as. 
they were one; [one in spirit, in mind, in purpose]. If I were to testify- 
that the Christian world were wrong on this point, my testimony would 
be true. 

Peter and Stephen testify that they saw the Son of Man standing on 
the right hand of God. Any person that had seen the heavens opened 
knows that there are three personages in the heavens who hold the- 
keys of power* and one presides over all. 

If any man attempts to refute what I am about to say, after I have 
made it plain, let him beware. 

As the Father hath power in Himself, so hath the Son power in Him- 
self, to lay down His life and take it again, so He has a body of His own. 
The Son doeth what He hath seen the Father do: then the Father hath 
some day laid down His life and taken it again; so He has a body of His. 
own; each one will be in His own body; and yet the sectarian world be- 
lieve the body of the Son is identical with the Father's. 

Gods have an ascendancy over the angels, who are ministering ser- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 427 

vants. In the resurrection, some are raised to be angels; others are 
raised to become Gods. 

These things are revealed in the most holy place in a Temple pre- 
pared for that purpose. Many of the sects cry out, "Oh, I have the 
testimony of Jesus; I have the Spirit of God: but away with Joe Smith; 
he says he is a prophet; but there are to be no prophets or revelators 
in the last days." Stop, sir! The Revelator says that the testimony of 
Jesus is the spirit of prophecy; so by your own month you are con- 
demned. But to the text. Why gather the people together in this 
place? For the same purpose that Jesus wanted to gather the Jews — 
to receive the ordinances, the blessings, and glories that God has in 
store for His Saints. 

I will now ask this assembly and all the Saints if you will now build 
this house and receive the ordinances and blessings which God has in 
store for you; or will you not build unto the Lord this house, and let 
Him pass by and bestow these blessings upoa another people? I pause 
for a reply. 

At half-past two p.m., I introduced to the congregation 
Mr. De Wolf, a clergyman of the Episcopal church, and 
requested the attention of the congregation in R ^ De 
his behalf. He read the 6th chapter of Hebrews, Preaches at 

• Nauvoo. 

and then kneeled and prayed, dressed m his 
black clerical gown, which excited some curiosity among 
some of the Saints . After the choir sans; a hymn , ke'preached 
from Hebrews, 6th chapter, 1st and 2nd verses, touching 
on such principles only that are acknowledged and re- 
ceived by the Church. In his closing remarks he ob- 
served— "I may never meet you all again this side of the 
eternal world; but I will appoint a meeting — i. e. when 
the Lord Jesus shall descend with his angels to call the 
dead from their graves, and sit in judgment on all the 
world." 

A conference was held at Lima, and the branch re- 
organized, under the direction of Elder Heber conference 
C. Kimball; Isaac Morley, President; Walter atLima - 
Cox and Edwin Whiting, counselors; Gardiner Snow, 
bishop; Clark Hallet and Henry Dean, counselors; Wil- 
liam Woodland, Solomon Hancock, James C. Snow, James 
Israel, Edmond Durfee, Daniel Stanton, Moses Clawson, 



428 H1ST0KY OF THE CHURCH. TA.D. 1843 

Joseph S. Allen, Philip Garner, Henry Ettleman, Reuben 
Daniels, and Horace Rawson, high council; James C. 
Snow, clerk of the branch. 

During the appointing of the high council, Elder Kim- 
ball made some general remarks upon the Word of Wis- 
dom. 

He commenced by saying that he always despised a 
penurious principle in any man, and that God despised it 
Heber c.Kim- also ; for he was liberal and did not look at 
word n of h wia- every little thing as we do. He looked at the 
dom - integrity of the "heart of man. He said some 

would strain, nip and tuck at the Word of Wisdom, and 
at the same time they would turn away a poor brother 
from their door when he would ask for a little meal for 
his breakfast. He compared it to the man that was 
stretched upon the iron bedstead ; if he was too long, they 
would cut him off; if he was too short, they would stretch 
him out. And again, he said, it made him think of the 
old Indian's tree, which stood so straight that it leaned 
a little the other way, and the best way was to stand 
erect. 

In the after part of tlie day he renewed the subject by 
saying that he did not wish to have any one take any ad- 
vantage of what he had said, for he spoke in general 
terms; but said he had always obeyed the Word of Wis- 
dom, and wanted every Saint to observe the same. He 
said that, when he was in England, he only taught it once 
or twice in public, and the Saints saw his example and 
followed it. So likewise when the elders go to preach, if 
they will observe the Word of Wisdom, all of those will 
whom they bring into the kingdom; but if they do not, 
they cannot expect their children will, but they will be just 
like themselves; for every spirit begets its own. Neither 
will such elders be able to do much good ; for the Holy 
Ghost will not dwell in them, neither will the Father nor 
the Son ; for they will not dwell where the Holy Ghost 
will not, and neither of them will dwell in unholy temples. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY Oh' IHK CHURCH. 429 

He said that he wanted wise and honorable men to fill re- 
sponsible offices who were worthy. He then closed his 
subject by recommending the Saints to observe the coun- 
sel of President Morley. He made some very appropriate 
remarks with regard to the Temple and Nauvoo House. 

Elder William Curtis was appointed to go with Elder 
Aaron M. York to the State of Maine. 



430 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH, [A.D 184^ 



CHAPTER XXIII. 



THE PROPHET'S VISIT TO DIXON, LEE CO. — CONDITIONS IN 
NAUVOO — SALEM ARGUS — SUMMARY OF THE WORLD'S 
EVENTS FOR THE YEAR 1843, UP TO JUNE — NEWS OF THE 
IMPENDING ARREST OF THE PROPHET RECEIVED AT NAU- 
VOO — EXPEDITIONS FOR HIS PROTECTION — THE ARREST — 
TURNING THE TABLES — RETURN TO NAUVOO 

Monday , June 12, 1843. —At the office morning and 
afternoon, and approved of the resolutions of a court mar- 
tial of the Nauvoo Legion, passed June 10, 1843, to the 
effect 

That an arsenal be built in the city of Nauvoo, to be 
located in any part of the city where the lieutenant and 
major generals may direct, who are also authorized to 
make or cause to be made, a draft of the same, and also 
to purchase any piece of land for the aforesaid purposes 
which they may deem proper. 

That Colonel Jonathan Dunham be and is hereby 
appointed agent for the Legion to superintend the busi- 
ness of the building of the aforesaid arsenal, and that he 
be allowed one dollar and forty-cents per day for his ser- 
vices while employed in that business, to be paid out of 
any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated; 
that he be armorer of said arsenal, when completed; and 
that he be allowed such remuneration for said services as 
may be hereafter fixed by law; also that he be required to 
give bonds to the amount of five thousand dollars, with ap- 
proved securities, before entering upon the duties of said 
office 



*\.D. 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 431 

That any constable or collector cf fines be and is 
hereby authorized, if he cannot obtain money, to take 
property in payment of fines, at a fair valuation at his 
discretion, and make returns thereof to the proper officers, 
as in other cases. 

That Brigadier-General Rich be and is hereby author- 
ized to organize the second battalion, first regiment second 
cohort, into a regiment of light infantry, to be called "The 
Escort Regiment of Light Infantry," to take place in the 
second cohort, according to assignment, on parade days, 
and do such duties of escort, &c, as may be necessary; 
and that he organize the first battalion, first regiment, 
second cohort, into a regiment of artillery. 

About forty Saints arrived from Peterboro, New 
Hampshire. 

Thursday, 13. — I started north with Emma and the 
children to see her sister, Mrs. Wasson and 
family, living near Dixon, Lee county Illinois. lhe P p™pLt° f 

Elder Wilford Woodruff, when going to the f c °£ D £° n ' Lee 
prairie with several brethren to fence his five- 
acre lot broke the reach of his wagon and it fell into a pile 
together. The wheel fell on his arm and bruised him con- 
siderably; but he was able to mend his wagon and con- 
tinue his journey. After working hard all day he went to 
Brother Cheney's house to obtain a drink of water, when 
mi ugly dog bit him through the calf of the leg, which 
made him very lame. 

Wednesday , 14. — Business is progressing. Buildings 
are going up in every direction, and the citizens manifest 
a determination that Nauvoo shall be built up. The 
stones of the Temple begin to rise tier upon tier, and it 
already presents a stately and noble appearance. 

The Mississippi has been rising three or four days, and 
is now three or four inches above high water mark. 

Thursday, 15. — We give the following extract from the 
Salem Advertiser and Argus, being an extract from a lec- 
ture delivered in Salem by Mr. J. B. Newhall: 



432 HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Synopsis of a Lecture Delivered in Salem, on Nauvoo and the Prophet. 

The Nauvoo Temple is a very singular and unique structure. It is 
one hundred and fifty feet in length, ninety-eight feet wide, and when 
finished will be one hundred and fifty feet high. It is different from 
anything in ancient or modern history. Everything about it is on a 
magnificent scale, and when finished and seen from the opposite side of 
the river, will present one, if not the most beautiful, chaste and noble 
specimens of architecture to be found in the world. 

We should like to be in possession of a model of this building, both 
on account of its great notoriety as being connected with the Mormon 
or Latter-day Saints' religion and also a work of art. 

Did our limits here permit, we might give a very minute description 
of the whole order of architecture. The splendid drawing was executed 
by Mr. Newhall, while in Nauvoo, from a copy in the archives of that 
city. We wish he had taken it on a large scale, but he probably did 
not on account of transportation. We regret exceedingly that we did 
not have the privilege of a near inspection of the map of the city of 
Nauvoo, the place which for some time past has created more intense 
interest, perhaps, than any other city, town or village in the country,, 
if not in the world. But on enquiring for it, we found it had been 
rolled up and packed away. 

He gave a very glowing and interesting account of this city. The 
location is one of the most beautiful upon earth, situated upon the 
Mississippi river, rising in an inclined plane till it reaches the height 
where it overlooks an extensive tract of territory, unrivaled in rich and 
varying scenery. 

His account of the military displays in Nauvoo, where Smith's Legion, 
as it is called, turns out, is very interesting and exciting. He spoke of 
the six ladies on horses, with white feathers or plumes waving over 
black velvet, riding up and down in front of the Legion. This must 
appear singular, at least to a Yankee. 

He has had personal interviews with Joseph; and to sum up his 
character in a word, he is a jolly fellow, and according to his view, he 
is one of the last persons on earth whom God would have raised up as 
a prophet or priest, he is so diametrically opposite to that which he 
ought to be in order to merit the titles or to act in such offices. 
Among others he is very sociable, cheerful, kind and obliging, and very 
hospitable. 

We have seen Hyrum Smith, a brother of Joseph's, and heard him 
preach, and conversed with him about his religion, its origin and prog- 
ress; and we heard him declare in this city, in public, that what is re- 
corded about the plates is God's solemn truth. 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 433 

He declared to' us in the Masonic Hall, in this city, that the state- 
ments are true, and called upon God with uplifted hands as a witness. 
We think it would be very interesting to the good people of Salem, and in 
fact to the whole Eastern States, to have the prophet come and make 
us a visit. We very much doubt whether there is a man on earth who 
would create so much excitement and deep interest at lease for the 
time being, as the prophet. 

The Times and Seasons of this date has the following: 

Calamities of 1843,' up to June, 

The past year has been distinguished by calamities. In some 
instances the elements seem to have been commissioned to perform the 
work of destruction to an awful extent and unprecedented severity. 

Three of the greatest calamities that have occurred within a century, 
happened within the short period of one hundred hours. The terrible 
fire at Hamburg, which destroyed two thousand houses, and nearly 
thirty million dollars of property, in the fairest portion of the city, was 
followed in less than two days by the earthquake at St. Domingo. In 
this earthquake the towns of Haytien and Santiago, sixty miles apart, 
were entirely destroyed, and not less than seven thousand five hundred 
of the inhabitants perished. 

On the very next day, while St. Domingo was yet rocking with the 
shocks of the earthquake, and the ruins of Hamburg were not three 
days old, a train of cars filled with passengers on the railroad from Paris 
to Versailles were thrown from the track and set on fire by the engine. 
Before the passengers, who were locked in, could be removed, seventy 
of them perished in the flames. 

More recently the city of Liverpool has suffered by fire to an extent 
only surpassed by the fire at Hamburg. 

In this country, the cities of Portland, New York, Charleston, and 
Columbia have suffered severely from the same cause. 

At one period of several weeks during the year it was estimated that 
the loss of steamboats on the western waters averaged one a day. In 
connection with six of the boats, two hundred lives were lost. If to all 
this we add the loss of life at sea, which has been unusually great the 
past year, we must regard it as a year of calamities. 

Friday, 16. — Judge James Adams wrote by express 
from Springfield, at ten p. m., that Governor Another Ar- 
Thomas Ford had told him that he was going J^ p £ et the 
to issue a writ for me on the requisition of the Threatened. 
Governor of Missouri, and that it would start tomorrow. 

28 Vol. v. 



434 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

I copy the following from the Neighbor. 

Proscription Against the Jews, 

At the very moment when a spirit of toleration seemed to influence the 
feelings of society throughout the civilized world, we regret to perceive 
that the tribunals of the pope are, in June, 1843, reviving at Rome 
and Ancona, the very worst proscriptions of that fell and sanguinary 
institute, the Inquisition, as will be seen by a perusal of the following 
document: 

"We, Fra Vincenzo Salina, *of the order of Predicatori, Master in 
Theology, General Inquisitor in Ancona, Singaglia, Jesi, Osino, Cin- 
goli, Macerata, Tolentino, Loreta, Recanati, and other towns and dis- 
tricts, &c. 

"It being deemed necessary to revive the full observance of the disci- 
plinary laws relative to the Israelites residing within our jurisdiction, 
and having hitherto without effect employed prayers and exhortation to 
obtain obediedce to those laws in the Ghetti (Jewries) of Ancona and 
Sinigaglia, authorized by the despatch of the Sacred and Supreme Inqui- 
sition of Rome, dated June 10, 1843, expressly enjoining and command- 
ing the observance of the decrees and pontificial constitutions, especi- 
ally in respect to Christian nurses and domestic servants, or to the sale 
of property either in town or country districts, purchased and possessed 
previously to 1827, as well as subsequently to that period, we decree as 
follows : 

"1. From the interval of two months after the date of this day, all 
gipsy and Christian domestics, male and female, whether employed by 
day or by night, must be dismissed from service in the said two Ghetti; 
and all Jews residing within our jurisdiction are expressly prohibited 
from employing any Christian nurse, or availing themselves of the ser- 
vices of any Christian in any domestic occupation whatever under pain 
of being immediately punished according to the pontifical constitutions. 

"2. That all Jews who may possess property either in town or country 
permanent or moveable, or rents or interest, or any right involving 
shares in funded property, or leased landed property, must, within the 
term of three months from this day dispose of it by a positive and real, 
and not by any pretended or fictitious contract. Should this not be 
done within the time specified, the holy office is to sell the same by 
auction, on proof of the annual harvest being got in. 

"3. That no Hebrew nurses, and still less any Hebrew family, shall 
inhabit the city, or reside in or remove their property into any town or 
district where there is no Ghetto (place or residence for Jews); aud 
that such as may actually be there in conformity to the laws must 
return to their respective Ghetto within the peremptory period of six 



A.D. 1843] • HISTORY OF THE CHOKCH. 435 

months, otherwise they will be proceeded against according to the tenor 
of the aw. 

"4. That, especially in any city where there is a Ghetto, no Hebrew 
must presume to associate at table with Christians, either in public 
houses or ordinaries, out of the Ghetto. 

"5. That in a city which has a Ghetto, no Hebrew shall sleep out of 
the Iseaelite quarter, nor make free to enter into familiar conversation 
in a Christian house. 

"G. That no Hebrew shall take the liberty, under any pretext whatever 
to induce male Christians, and still less female Christians, to sleep within 
the boundaries of the Ghetto. 

"7. That no Hebrews shall hire Christians, even only by the day, to 
work in their houses in the Ghetto. 

"8. That no Hebrew, either male or female, shall frequent the houses 
of Christians, or maintain friendly relations with Christian men or 
women. 

"9. That the laws shall remain in force respecting the decorum to Do 
observed by the Hebrews who may absent themselves from their Ghetto 
to travel in the other parts of the state." 

After laying down their monstrous rescripts, which we had hoped 
even the Romish church would not have attempted to revive, and still 
less reclothe with authority, and arm with tremendous pains and penal- 
ties, the savage order is issued that these intolerant laws shall be read 
in each of the Jewish synagogues. It is added, "They who violate the 
above articles will incur some or all of the penalties prescribed in the 
edicts of the Holy Inquisition. 

Saturday, 17. — The Maid of loiva went to Shokoquon 
with the Temple hands on a pleasure excursion. While 
there, the steamer Shokoquon came to port with many citi- 
zens from Burlington, when Elder George A. Smith de- 
livered a lecture. 

Sunday, 18. Meeting at the Temple. Elder Eli P. 
Maginn preached in the forepart of the day, to the edifica- 
tion of the Saints. The sacrament was administered in 
the afternoon. 

Judge Adams' message arrived early in the evening, 
when my Brother Hyrum sent William Clay- Markham and 
ton and Stephen Markham as fast as possible S^™ t ^ nt 
to inform me. Markham had two hundred and Pr °P he t- 
fifty dollars, and Clayton borrowed two hundred dollars. 



436 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1843 

They left Nauvoo about half-past twelve at night, and pro- 
ceeded to La Harpe. 

Elder Elijah F. Sheets writes that he and Joseph A. 
Stratton have been preaching in Illinois, Indiana and 
Pennsylvania since September 4, 1842; have baptized 
thirty- two, and many more are convinced of the truth of 
the work ; and that they are continuing their labors. 

Monday, 19. — The laborers held a meeting in the 
grove to investigate the price and principles of labor. 

Clayton and Markham arrived at La Harpe at sunrise, 
tarried about two hours to get a horse shod and take 
breakfast; started again at seven for Mon- 
Markham and mouth, where they arrived at three p.m., and 
put up their horses to feed and rest. They 
took dinner and slept till seven, when they started again 
and rode till midnight, when, the horses being tired 
and weary, they turned them out to feed, and they them- 
selves lay down to sleep about two hours ; after which they 
again resumed their journey and rode one mile north of 
Hendersonville, where they stopped to feed their horses. 

Tuesday, 20. — About half-past seven, a. m., Markham 
and Clayton again started on their journey, and arrived at 
Markham and Andover about ten a. m. They turned out their 
ciayton Ar- h ors es to &raze in the woods for about half-an- 

riye at Port- <=> 

land - hour, when they proceeded to Grennesseo, where 

they arrived at half-past two p. m. They tried to hire a pair 
of horses to continue their journey, but did not succeed. 
They left Grennesseo, at six p. m., and traveled to Pert- 
land, where they arrived at twelve, put up their horses, 
and went to bed until four a. m. 

The following appears in the Nauvoo Neighbor, and 
serves to illustrate the benefit of chartered rights in 
Illinois : 

Projected Industries at Nauvoo Menaced by Portending Legislation. 

g IR: — i n obedience to the call made in your paper for information in 
relation to the affairs of the Agricultural and Manufacturing: Associa- 



A.D. 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 437 

tion of this city, I give you such facts as I think will be satisfactory. 

The first great object of the company was to establish a pottery for 
the manufacturing of the various kinds of crockery in common use in the 
country. Persons were deputed to make the necessary search whether 
suitable materials could be obtained. 

The persons who were employed in this service were such as had 
been employed all their lives in the business. Their report was fav- 
orable, having found all the materials of as good a quality as those 
used in the old world for that purpose, in the immediate vicinity. 

Efforts were accordingly made to commence the business with as 
little delay as possible. An eligible situation was obtained and the 
work of building commenced. 

A stone building of sufficient size was put under construction and 
progressed with much rapidity. Persons possessing means felt desir- 
ous of investing a part of them at least in the business. All was pros- 
perous and all flattering. 

A considerable amount of land was obtained for agricultural pur- 
poses, it being the wish of the managers to supply all their workmen 
with all their necessaries as far as could be. Arrangements were mak- 
ing to get stock of the various kinds for this purpose. 

The building had progressed nearly to the height of one story, when 
the electioneering campaign commenced, and it was roundly asserted 
that if certain persons were elected, all the charters granted by a pre- 
vious legislature to the citizens of Nauvoo would be repealed. 

At first the association supposed that this was merely an electioneer- 
ing intrigue. But it assumed a formidable appearance, and began to 
assume the character of a fixed determination to carry the design into 
execution. 

The subsequent acts of the legislature have given^but too much evi- 
dence that such was the real intention of a very considerable portion of 
the members of the last legislature, if not a majority of them. This 
instantly paralyzed the exertions of the company. Many who were 
about to contribute to the funds of the society paused, not knowing 
what was best; and in consequence the work^stopped. 

Not that the company supposed that there was any such power vested 
in the legislature, either in the constitution or common sense; but they 
did not know how far a reckless spirit might lead men in the violation 
of both. 

As the matter now stands, those having capital are at a loss whether 
to invest it in that way or not, lest the'lsame reckless spirit may inev- 
itably carry the proposed design into effect. 

The work has not stopped for want of means or materials to carry on 
the business, as means, materials, and workmen of the first order are 



438 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1843 

all at hand. But where is the safety, while such doctrines are boldly 
maintained by our legislature? 

All the prospects of the company may be blasted at any stage of their 
business by one single act of men who seem to have no interest in the 
prosperity of the state or the citizens thereof, apart from their own 
political preferment. 

Pledges can be made, for the sake of preferment, to an ignorant con- 
stituency to commit the most flagrant abuses upon the rights of private 
companies or even individuals, and attempts made with zeal and deter- 
mination to carry them out to the full extent. 

If public confidence be restored, the work can go on more vigorously 
than ever. 

Respectfully, 

Sidney Rigdon, 

President of the Company. 



Elder John Snider reported the names of various per- 
sons in Great Britain and Ireland who donated various 

small sums between May and December, 1842, 
^ a Tem P £ as contributions for building the Temple, and 

paid over oine hundred and seventy-five dol- 
lars and four cents. The names of the donors and 
amounts are recorded in the "Law of the Lord." 

I insert the following as an exception to the general 
rule: — Earl Spencer keeps " all the poor in the parish of 
Wormleighton, England, and so prevents a poor rate. 

He allows his laborers nine shillings a week 

Generosit v 

of Eari when out of employment, and they pay only a 

shilling a year as a nominal rent for the house 

in which they severally reside. 

Wednesay, 21. — Markham and Clayton left Portland at 

four a. m., and traveled to within nine miles of Dixon. 
They changed their course, and went direct to 

the Prophet Inlet Grove, where they arrived at half -past 

ham and *" twelve, took dinner and fed their horses. 

Clayton. ^^ j^ ^ ^ Q ^ m ^ ^ arr J yed at ^r ag . 

son's at four p. m., where they learned that I was gone 
to Dixon in the carriage ; and although their horses were 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 439 

tired down, they started for Dixon, but met me about half 
way. 

They returned with me to Wasson's, and were glad to 
find a resting place, having ridden two hundred and twelve 
miles in sixty-six hours and had very little rest on the 
way; the horses were tired, — their backs very sore. I told 
them not to be alarmed. 4i I have no fear. I shall not 
leave here: I shall find friends, and Missourians cannot 
hurt me, I tell you in the name of Israel's God." 

Thursday, 22. — Another meeting of the laborers in the 
grove near the temple concerning wages. 

I had previously given out an appointment to preach 
this day at Dixon, but on account of the PostpoIiemeilt 
change in circumstances, I wrote to Dixon, of , th ? Proph- 

° ' . 7 et's Appomt- 

telling the people there was a writ out for me, ment at 
and therefore declined preaching; and I kept 
myself quiet all day, telling my friends that if I started for 
home I might be arrested where I had no friends and be 
kidnapped into Missouri, and thought it best to tarry at 
Inlet and see the result. Many [at Dixon] were desir- 
ous to hear me preach, but were disappointed. 

Lawyer Edward Southwick, of Dixon, having heard of 
the writ being out against me, rode twelve miles to inform 
me. I thanked him for his kindness, paid him twenty-five 
dollars and introduced him to my friends, Markham and 
Clayton, showing that I had received previous informa- 
tion. 

Friday, 23. — Judge Adams arrived at Nauvoo from 
Springfield. 

At eight a. m. a company of the brethren gathered to 
remove the timbers from the Temple to the grove. 

I sent William Clayton to Dixon at ten a. m., to try 
and find out what was going on there. He met Mr. Joseph 
H. Reynolds, the sheriff of Jackson county, Missouri, 
and Constable Harmon T. Wilson, of Carthage, Illinois, 
about half way, but they being disguised, they were not 
known by him ; and when at Dixon they represented them- 



440 HISTOEY OF THE CHURCH. IA. D. 1843 

selves as Mormon elders who wanted to see the prophet. 
They hired a man and team to carry them, for they had 
run their horses almost to death. 

They arrived at Mr. Wasson's while the family were at 
dinner, about two p. m. They came to the door and said 
The Arrest at they were Mormon elders, and wanted to see 
Dixon. Brother Joseph. I was in the yard going to 

the barn when Wilson stepped to the end of the house and 
saw me. He accosted me in a very uncouth, ungentle- 
manly manner, when Reynolds stepped up to me, collared 
me, then both of them presented cocked pistols to my 
breast, without showing any writ or serving any process. 
Reynolds cried out, "G — d — yon, if you stir I'll shoot; 
G — d — • if you, stir one inch, I shoot you, be still, or I'll 
shoot you, by G — ." I enquired "What is the meaning of 
all this?" "I'll show you the meaning, by G — ; and if 
you stir one inch, I'll shoot you, G — d — you." I 
answered, "I am not afraid of your shooting; I am not 
afraid to die." I then bared my breast and told them to 
shoot away. "I have endured so much oppression, I am 
weary of life; and kill me, if you please. I am a strong 
man, however, and with my own natural weapons could 
soon level both of you; but if you have any legal process 
to serve, I am at all times subject to law, and shall not 
offer resistance." Reynold replied, "G — d — you, if 
you say another word I will shoot you, by G — ." I 
answered, "Shoot away; I am not afraid of your 
pistols." 

By this time Stephen Markham walked deliberately 
towards us. When they saw him coming, they turned 
Markham's their pistols from me to him, and threatened 
courage. j^g j^ e jf j ie came an y nearer; but he paid no 

attention to their threats, and continued to advance 
nearer. They then turned their pistols on me again, 
jamming them against my side, with their fingers on the 
triggers, and ordered Markham to stand still or they 
would shoot me through. As Markham was advancing 



A.U. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 441 

rapidly towards me, 1 said, "You are not going to resist 
the officers, are you, Brother Markham?" He replied, 
"No, not if they are officers: 1 know the law too well for 
that." 

They then hurried me off, put me in a wagon without 
serving any process, and were for hurrying me off without 
letting me see or bid farewell to my family or friends, or 
even allowing me time to get my hat or clothes, or even 
suffer my wife or children to bring them to me. I then 
said, "Gentlemen, if you have any legal process, I wish 
to obtain a writ of habeas corpus," and was answered, — 
"G — d — you, you shan't have one." They still contin- 
ued their punching me on both sides with their pistols. 

Markham then sprung and seized the horses by the 
bits, and held them until my wife could bring Brutality of 
my hat and coat. Reynolds and Wilson again tbe Arrest - 
threatening to shoot Markham, who said, "There is no 
law on earth that requires a sheriff to take a prisoner 
without his clothes." Fortunately at this moment I saw 
a man passing, and said to him, "These men are kidnap- 
ping me, and I wish a writ of habeas corpus to deliver my- 
self out of their hands. But as he did not appear to go, 
I told Markham to go, and he immediately proceeded to 
Dixon on horseback, where the sheriff also proceeded 
with me at full speed, without even allowing me to speak 
to my family or bid them good bye. The officers held 
their pistols with the muzzles jamming into my side for 
more than eight miles, and they only desisted on being 
reproached by Markham for their cowardice in so brutally 
ill-treating an unarmed, defenseless prisoner. On arriv- 
ing at the house of Mr. McKennie, the tavern-keeper, I 
was thrust into a room and guarded there, without being 
allowed to see anybody; and fresh horses were ordered to 
be ready in five minutes. 

I again stated to Eeynolds, "I wish to get counsel," 
when he answered. G — d— you, you shan't have counsel: 
one word more, G — d — you, and I'll shoot you." 



442 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

' ' What is the use of this so often? ' ' said I. "I have repeat- 
edly told you to shoot; and I now tell you again to shoot 
away!" I saw a person passing and shouted to him 
through the window, "1 am falsely imprisoned here, and 
I want a lawyer. Lawyer Edward Southwick came, and 
had the door banged in his face, with the old threat of 
shooting him if he came any nearer. 

Another lawyer (Mr. Shepherd G. Patrick) afterwards 
came and received the same treatment, which began to 
cause considerable excitement in Dixon. 

A Mr. Lucien P. Sanger asked Markham what was the 
matter, when he told him all, and stated that the sheriff 
intended to drag me away immediately to Missouri, and 
prevent my taking out a writ of habeas corpus. 

Sanger soon made this known to Mr. Dixon, the owner 

of the house, and his friends, who gathered around the 

hotel door, and gave Reynolds to understand 

The Timely , . „ , , ? 7, • -, n t • i 

interference that if that was their mode oi doing business 
in Missouri, they had another way of doing it 
in Dixon. They were a law-abiding people and Republic- 
ans, and gave Reynolds to understand that he should 
not take me away without giving me the opportunity of a 
fair trial, and that I should have justice done me; but that 
if he persisted in his course, they had a very sum- 
mary way of dealing with such people. 

Mr. Reynolds finding further resistance to be useless, 
allowed Mr. Patrick and Mr. Southwick to come into 
The Prophet's the room to me, (but Wilson was inside 
Pe^Te 1 of the guarding the door, and Reynolds guarded the 
Dixon. outside of the door,) when I told them I had 

been taken prisoner by these men without process; I had 
been insulted and abused by them. I showed them my 
flesh, which was black for about eighteen inches in cir- 
cumference on each side, from their punching me with 
their pistols ; and I wanted them to sue out a writ of 
habeas corpus, whereupon Reynolds swore he should only 
wait half-an-hour to give me a chance. A messenger was. 



A.D 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHDECH. 443 

immediately sent by Mr. Dixon to Mr. Chamberlain, the 
Master-in-Chancery, who lived six miles Cyrus H 
distant, and, another message to Cyrus H. Walker - 
Walker, who happened to be near, to have them come 
down and get out the writ of habeas corpus. 
v* A writ was sued out by Markham before a justice of the 
f peace against Reynolds and Wilson for threatening his 
life. They were taken into custody by the constable. 
He sued out another writ for assault and threatening my 
life, whereupon they were again arrested. 
* — At this time Markham rushed into the room and put a 
pistol (unobserved) into my pocket, although Eeynolds 
and Wilson had their pistols cocked at the same time and 
were threatening to shoot him. 

About midnight he sued out a writ for a violation of the 
law in relation to writs of habeas corpus, Wilson having 
transferred me to the custody of Eeynolds, for the pur- 
pose of dragging me to Missouri, and thereby avoiding the 
effect and operation of said writ, contrary to law, which 
was put over to be heard at ten o'clock tomorrow morn- 
ing; and I was conducted back to the room and guarded 
through the night. 

The 5th legion, 2nd cohort, Nauvoo Legion, consisting 
of four companies, organized. Hosea Stout Le gion En- 
was elected colonel; Theodore Turley, lieu- lar s ement - 
tenant-colonel; Jesse D. Hunter, major. 

Saturday, 24. — As my favorite horse, Jo. Duncan, was 
somewhat jaded, with being ridden so hastily 
by Brother Clayton, I hired a man with his turn to 
horse and buggy to carry Brother Clayton to 
Rock Island, where the steamer Amaranth fortunately 
came in about fifteen minutes, on which he took passage to 
Nauvoo, to inform my brother Hyrum of what was being 
done, and request him to send me some assistance forth- 
with. 

About eight, the master-in-chancery arrived and issued 
a writ of habeas corpus returnable before the Hon. John 



444 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. LA.D. 1843 

D. Caton, Judge of the 9th Judicial Circuit at Ottawa, 
which was duly served on Reynolds and Wilson. 

Mr. Cyrus Walker, who was out electioneering to be- 
come the representative for Congress, told me that he 
Cyrus could not find time to be my lawyer unless I 

TevmVior could promise him my vote. He being con- 
Legai service, sidered the greatest criminal lawyer in that 
part of Illinois, I determined to secure his aid, and prom- 
ised him my vote. He afterwards went to Markham and 
joyfully said, "I am now sure of my election, as Joseph 
Smith has promised me his vote, and I am going to 
defend him." 

At ten a. m. another writ was sued — this time from the 
Circuit Court of Lee county, against Reynolds and Wilson. 
Turning the for private damage and for false imprison- 
R^noicu and - men ^? claiming ten thousand dollars damages 
wiison. upon the ground that the writ issued by the 

governor of Illinois was a void writ in law ; upon which 
said writ they were held to bail in ten thousand dollars 
each, and they had to send to Missouri for bondsmen and 
were placed in the custody of the sheriff of Lee county. 

Reynolds and Wilson felt bad when these last writs 
were served on them, and began to cool in their conduct 
a little; after which they also obtained a writ of habeas 
corpus, for the purpose of being discharged before Judge 
Caton. 

I was conveyed by Reynolds and Wilson, upon the first 

writ of habeas corpus, towards Ottawa, as far 

pawpaw as Pawpaw Grove, thirty-two miles, where I 

was again abused by Reynolds and Wilson, 

which was observed by the landlord. 

Esquire Walker sent Mr. Campbell, sheriff of Lee 
county, to my assistance, and he came and slept by me. 
In the morning certain men wished to see me, but I was 
not allowed to see them. 

The news of my arrival had hastily circulated about the 
neighborhood; and very early in the morning the largest 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 445 

room in the hotel was filled with citizens, who were anx- 
ious to hear me preach and requested me to address them. 

Sheriff Reynolds entered the room and said, pointing to 
me, "I wish you to understand this man is my prisoner, 
and I want you to disperse: you must not gather 
around here in this way." Upon which Mr. Da v ^^^ jp-w^.* 
an aged gentleman, who was lame and carried a large 
hickory walking-stick, advanced towards Reynolds, bring- 
ing his hickory upon the floor, and said: 

lh You damned infernal puke, we'll learn you to come 
here and interrupt gentlemen. Sit down 

. . . David Town's 

there, (pointing to a very low chair,) and sit Effective 
still. Don't open your head till General Smith pee 
gets through talking. If you never learned manners in 
Missouri, we'll teach you that gentlemen are not to be 
imposed upon by a nigger- driver. You cannot kidnap 
men here, if you do in Missouri; and if you attempt it 
here, there's a commitee in this grove that will sit on 
your case; and, sir, it is the highest tribunal in the United 
States, as from its decision there is no appeal." 

Reynolds, no doubt aware that the person addressing 
him was the head of a committee who had prevented the 
settlers on the public domain from being imposed upon 
by land speculators, sat down in silence while I addressed 
the assembly for an hour- and- a-half on the subject of 
marriage, my visitors having requested me to give them 
my views of the laws of God respecting marriage. My 
freedom commenced from that hour. 

Immediately after I left Dixon, my wife and children 
started with my carriage from Inlet Grove 
for Nauvoo being driven by her nephew, Emma smith 

T ^ ^,7. from Dixon. 

Lorenzo D. Jjxassqn. 

The quorum of the Twelve received a letter from Asa- 
hel Smith, [the prophet's father's brother, and father of 
the late Judge Elias Smith] of Nashville, Iowa, requesting 
them to appoint a conference in that place to settle some 
difficulties existing there. 



446 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

The free and accepted ancient York Masons met at the 
lodge room, being the anniversary of St. John's Day; 
A KM . then formed a procession in due masonic 

A Masonic x 

Temple for form in front of tl^e hall, and walked to Main 

Nauvoo. 

street, where the corner stone for a Masonic 
Temple was laid by the Worshipful Master, Hyruni Smith. 
Two masonic hymns were sung, after which they pro- 
ceeded to the Grove near the Temple, where an oration 
was delivered by Brother John Taylor. From thence they 
proceeded to Mr. Warner's, where about two hundred sat 
down to an excellent dinner. The company broke up 
early in the afternoon, highly delighted with the day's 
proceedings. 

Sunday, 25. — At Pawpaw Grove it was ascertained 
that Judge Caton was on a visit to New York, whereupon 
Reynolds, Wilson, Walker, Southwick, Patrick, Dixon, 
Stephen Markham and myself, with others, started about 
eight a. m., and returned to the town of Dixon, arriving 
about four p. m. when, I was again locked in a room and 
guarded through the night. 4 

The water has fallen in the Mississippi more than a foot 
since last Sunday. 

At ten a. m., meeting at the Temple. Elder Lyman 
Wight preached on charity; and in the afternoon, Elder 
Excitement at Maginn was preaching, when my brother 
Nauvoo. Hyruni went to the stand and requested the 

brethren to meet him at.the Masonic Hall in thirty minutes. 

The brethren immediately went there in such numbers 
that one fourth of them could not get into the room; so 
they adjourned to the green and formed a hollow square, 
when my brother Hyrum informed them that Elder Wil- 
liam Clayton had arrived about two, and told him thac 
Joseph H. Reynolds, sheriff of Jackson county, Missouri, 
and Harmon T. Wilson, of Carthage, had come upon me 
by surprise and arrested me, and related the occurrence 
as far as known, up to my arrival in Dixon. He wanted 
a company to go up to my assistance and see that I had 



A.0.1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 447 

my rights. He called for volunteers, when upwards of 
three hundred volunteered, from whom they selected such 
as were wanted. 

Generals Law and Charles C. Rich started the same 
evening, with a company of about one Relief 
hundred and seventy-five men on horseback. Ex P ed ition 3 . 
Previous to starting, Elder Wilford Woodruff went to the 
company and donated a barrel of rifle powder, when 
every man filled his horn or flask. 

Wilson Law declared he would not go a step unless he 
could have money to bear his expenses, upon which Elder 
Brigham Young said the money should be forthcoming, 
although he did not know at the time where he could raise 
a dollar. In about thirty minutes he got on the track, 
and in the course of two hours he had borrowed seven 
hundred dollars, and put it in the hands of Hyrum Smith 
and Wilson Law, to defray the expenses of the expedition. 
About seventy-five on board the Maid of Iowa, with Cap- 
tain Dan Jones, went up the Illinois river for Peoria, and 
to examine the steamboats, suspecting I might be a pris- 
oner on board one of them, as they supposed me on the 
road to Ottawa. 

Several of the Pottawatamie Indians called to see the 
Nauvoo House and Temple. They wanted to talk, but 
their interpreter could not speak much. 

The writ of habeas corpus [the one first issued and made 
returnable before Judge Caton at Ottawa] was returned 
endorsed thereon, " Judge absent," when another writ of 
habeas corpus was issued at seven a. m. by the „ T . M 

i. ~ Writ of Ha- 

Master-m- Chancery, and was worded at Col- beas corpus 
onel Markham's request, "Returnable before 
the nearest tribunal in the Fifth Judicial District author- 
ized to hear and determine writs of habeas corpus ; ' ? and 
the sheriff of Lee county served it on them [Reynolds and 
Wilson] in a few minutes afterwards. I, my lawyers, 
Markham, Dixon and other friends held a council and 
arranged to start before nine a. in., to go before Judge 



448 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A. D. IteZ 

Stephen A. Douglas, at Quincy, a distance of about two 
hundred and sixty miles. I employed Mr. Lucien P. 
Sanger with the stage coach to convey us on our journey 
towards Quincy. 

After these arrangements were made, I sent Markham 
with a letter to General Wilson Law, directing him to meet 
me at Monmouth on Wednesday evening, with sufficient 
force to prevent my being kidnapped into Missouri, as I 
well knew that the whole country was swarming with men 
anxious to carry me there and kill me, without any 
shadow of law or justice, although they well knew that I 
had not committed any crime worthy of death or bonds. 

Monday, 26. — It was reported that there were state 
writs in Nauvoo to take Lyman Wight, Parley P. Pratt, 
and Alexander McRae to Missouri, who armed themselves 
to prevent being kidnapped. 

I copy the following from the Chicago Democrat: 

Account of the PropheVs Arrest in the Chicago Democrat. 

Dear Sir: — Our little town has been in an unusual state of excite- 
ment for a few days past, originating from the arrest of General 
Joseph Smith, which took place at the Inlet Grove, while he was on a 
visit with his family to a sister [an error, his wife's nephew] who re- 
sides there. He was arrested on Friday last by an officer from Hancock 
county, and delivered over to the sheriff of Jackson county, Missouri, 
in compliance with the orders of the governor. 

The officers who took him brought him into town in the evening and 
confined him closely to his room, refusing admission not only to the 
citizens whose curiosity had drawn them to the spot, but to counsel 
whom he had requested to have employed. 

Our citizens, couceiving it a violation of right that a man should be 
deprived of that advice and assistance which is accorded to the most 
degraded and guilty offender in all civilized countries under such cir- 
cumstances, expressed themselves in such strong and indignant terms, 
that the officers finally permitted counsel to have access to him. 

He applied for the benefit of the habeas corpus; and while the law- 
yers were busy drawing up the necessary papers, the officers frequently 
asserted that they would not wait, but would leave for the Mississippi 
at all hazards. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 449 

They were however, induced, by the force of argument, to desist 
from their intention and wait until morning, when the habeas corpus 
was served. After which they stated their determination to go to Rock 
Island and by steamboat from thence to Galena, before Judge Brown. 
General Smith justly felt fearful that once on a steamboat, he should 
hardly reach Galena. The distance from this place to Rock Island is 
the same as from her^ to Galena. 

General Smith, finding this their determination, commenced suit 
against the sheriff of Missouri for trespass, and held him to bail, which 
he was unable to procure, which circumstance lowered his tune a little; 
and thus finally, today, has left for Quincy in search of Judge Young. 

The severe treatment of the general, together with his pleasing de- 
portment and equanimity under all his trials, has made him many 
friends and created almost universal sympathy. Persecution or op- 
pression always helps the cause of the persecuted or oppressed, whether 
their cause is right or wrong. 

In haste, yours, 

G. 

From Dixon we traveled about forty miles, and stayed 
for the night at a farm house. Markham rode to Genesseo 
with my letter and stayed all night. 

Tuesday, 27, — I started with the company, and took 
dinner at Genesseo. At about two p. m., we resumed our 
journey. While crossing Fox River, I requested El) route for 
Reynolds to give me the privilege of riding on Q umc y- 
horseback, which he refused; but, by the intercession of 
Sheriff Campbell and Mr. Cyrus Walker, Walker took my 
seat in the stage-coach, and I his in the buggy with Mr. 
Montgomery, son-in-law and law student of Cyrus Walker. 
In about two miles we met Peter W. Conover and William 
L. Cutler, and shook hands with both of them at the same 
time, and could not refrain from tears at seeing the first 
of my friends come to meet me, and then said to Mr. 
Montgomery, "I am not going to Missouri this time. 
These are my boys." 

I next enquired how many were with them, and was 
answered, There were ten started, but they had sent one 
with my letter to Wilson Law, and two to Monmouth. 

29 Vol.V. 



450 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D 1843 

While we were talking, Markham, with Captain Thomas 
Grover, and the other five brethren, rode up. At the same 
time, the company who started with me from Dixon rode 
up. I then said to Eeynolds, "Now, Eeynolds, I can have 
the privilege of riding old Joe Duncan," and mounted my 
favorite horse ; and the entire company then rode towards 
a farm house, where we made a halt, 

Eeynolds and Wilson, who trembled much, then rode 
up to Conover, who was an old acquaintance of Wilson's; 
when Conover asked Wilson, "What is the matter with 
you? Have you got the ague?" Wilson replied, "No." 

Eeynolds asked, "Is Jem Flack in the crowd?" and 
was answered, "He is not now, but you will see him to- 
morrow about this time." "Then," said Eeynolds, "I 
am a dead man; for I know him of old." Conover told 
him not to be frightened, for he would not be hurt. 

Eeynolds stood trembling like an aspen-leaf, when 
Markham walked up to him and shook hands with him. 
Reynolds said, "Do I meet you as a friend? I expected 
to be a dead man when I met you again." Markham 
replied, "We are friends, except in law: That must have 
its course." 

The company moved on to Andover, where the sheriff 
of Lee county requested lodgings for the night for all the 
company. I was put up into a room and locked up with 
Captain Grover. It was reported to me that some of the 
brethren had been drinking whisky that day in violation 
of the Word of Wisdom. 

I called the brethren in and investigated the case, and 
coDover'sAc- was satisfied that no evil had been done. 
KrstDMsfon Peter W. Conover gave me the following 
tto^toieueve relation of the travels of the brethren from 
the Prophet. Nauvoo to the place where I met them: — 

I started with General Wilson Law, William Law, and about 175 
men, on Sunday, the 25th of June, at eight p. m., in the direction of 



A.D. 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 451 

Peoria: traveled part of the night. About one o'clock next morning 
General Charles C. Rich took 35 of the company and continued towards 
Peoria. The two Laws, with their company, started up the river road 
in the direction of Monmouth. We traveled till daylight on Monday 
morning, crossed Honey Creek, ate a cold breakfast, and fed the horses; 
then continued on till noon, when a consultation was held, and ten 
of the best mounted men — viz., Thomas Grover, Peter W. Conover, 
Zebedee Coltrin, Graham Coltrin, Philemou C. Merrill, Philander Col- 
ton, Henry Hoyt, William L. Cutler, Daniel F. Cahoon, and John L. 
Butler were selected to take the nearest road to Dixon, with instruc- 
tions to continue until we found you. 

We took the middle road between Oquaka and Monmouth, and con- 
tinued on until Tuesday at two a. m., when we rested for one hour, 
then passed through Hendersonville on to the prairie, about nine a. m., 
at which time we met Colonel Stephen Markham with your letter of in- 
structions to General Wilson Law. We read the letter. Philander Col- 
ton was sent with the despatch to Wilson Law. We then made a halt 
at Andover, where the inhabitants refused to sell us food. 

Here we held a council, and sent Daniel Cahoon and Henry Hoyt 
back to Monmouth, with instructions to the brethren to wait there until 
they got further orders. We then traveled ten miles and obtained some 
corn at a farm-house. One p. m., left there and traveled on to the prai- 
ries until we met you. 

Here Conover exchanged with me one of Allen's four- 
inch barrel six-shooter revolvers for the single shooter 
which Markham had slipped into my pocket at Dixon. 

About eight p. rn., Reynolds, Wilson, and the landlord 
consulted about sending out to raise a company Reynolds and 
to take me by force, and run with me to the i^™ km-" 
mouth of Rock River on the Mississippi, as » a PP hl s- 
there was a company of men ready to kidnap me over the 
river. Markham overheard the conversation, and notified 
the sheriff of Lee county, who immediately ordered a 
guard placed, so that no one might pass in or out of the 
house during the night. 

Markham started at daybreak, and went about twenty 
miles, passing through Andover at eight a. m. ; and about 
nine he met Captain Thomas Grover and a company of 
ten men, to whom he delivered my message. Held a 



452 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |>.D. IS43 

council and forwarded it on to General Law by Philander 
Colton. Markham turned back with the company. 

My wife and children arrived in Nauvoo this evening, 
having burned off one arm of the carriage going home. 

Many strangers reported in the city: the watch was 
doubled in the night. 

Wednesday , 28. — We left Andover about eight o'clock; 
went to a little grove at the head of Elleston Creek, where 
we stayed an hour to feed our animals. Reynolds said, 
"Now, we will go from here to the mouth of Rock River 
and take steamboat to Quincy." Markham said, "No; 
for we are prepared to travel, and will go by land." 

Wilson and Reynolds both spoke and said, "No, by 

Gr — , we won't; we will never gc by Nauvoo alive;" and 

both drew their pistols on Markham, who 

Reynolds and i m • »* i™« 

Wilson Dis- turned round to Sheriff Campbell, of Lee 
county, saying, "When these men took Jos- 
eph a prisoner, they took his arms from him, even to his 
pocket-knife. They are now prisoners of yours, and I de- 
mand of you to take their arms from them, that is accord- 
ing to law." 

They refused to give them up, when the sheriff was 
told, "If you cannot take the arms from them, there are 
men enough here, and you can summon a posse to do it; 
for it is plain to be seen that they are dangerous men." 

Reynolds and Wilson then reluctantly gave up their 
arms to the sheriff. The company then started, taking 
the middle road towards Nauvoo to within sis miles of 
Monmouth, and stopped at a farmhouse, having traveled 
about forty miles ; got there about sundown, and called 
for supper and lodging. 

Peter W. Conover laid down at the S. W. corner of the 
building outside the house. In about ten minutes, Rey- 
nolds and Wilson came out of the house with 

Further Plans 

of Kidnap- the son of the landlord. They talked for some 

time, and came to the conclusion to take the 

carriage horses, go to Monmouth, raise a mob r and come 



A.l). 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 453 

to the farmhouse in the night, seize Joseph, and convey 
him to the Mississippi river, and take him to Missouri, 
as they had a steamboat in readiness at the mouth of Rock 
River for that purpose. 

After completing their plan of operations, Reynolds, 
Wilson and the boy separated and went towards the 
stable. Conover, who had heard the plot unobserved, im- 
mediately rose and came to me, and told me what he had 
just heard. 

I consulted with Cyrus Walker, the landlord, and Sher- 
iff Campbell, who took Reynolds and Wilson into his 
custody, and put them in the upper room, placing a guard 
of two men at the door, with orders not to allow any man 
to pass in or out of the house, except the landlord, who, 
as soon as he was told of the attempt to get his son into 
difficulty, put a stop to his proceedings at once. 

Some anxiety at Nauvoo about so many strangers and 
suspicious characters being in the city. 

The Neighbor of this day has the following: — 

Fourth ot July Celebration Appointed jor Nauvoo. 

By the counsel and advice of President Hyruni Smith, Messrs. 0. 
Hyde and G. J. Adams, who have been appointed to go on a mission to 
Russia, will deliver two addresses on the 4th July, upon the subject of 
our holy religion, for the benefit and edification not only of our own 
citizens, but also for strangers who may be pleased to visit our town on 
that day. The morning's address by Mr. Hyde, at half past ten o'clock; 
and the afternoon by Mr. Adams, at two o'clock. 

From the circumstances under which we are placed, this course is 
thought far more advisable for all who wish to be considered Saints to 
assemble for religious worship and collectively offer up our prayers to 
Almighty God for.peace and prosperty to attend us as a people. 

The giddy and unthinking will, no doubt, resort to public dinners, 
festivals, and perhaps to the ball chamber, to spend their time and 
money to gratify their appetite and vanity; but no true-hearted Saint at 
this peculiar moment will do it. 

At the close of each address a collection will be taken for the espe- 
cial purpose of assisting to complete Elder Hyde's house, that he may 
be the sooner liberated to proceed on his important mission to St. 
Petersburg. 



454 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

He who has money to spend on that day can spend it more to the 
glory of God in the above manner than after the custom and practice 
of the corrupt age in which w^ live. 

It is hoped that the band and choir will favor us on that occasion. 

The lectures will be delivered in the Grove near the Temple where 
seats are provided. 

Thursday, 29. — Continued our journey this morniug, 
The Prophet leaving Monmouth on our left, and Oquaka 
noids C Ag^nIt & ve m il es on our right ; and after passing 
Fiaek. Monmouth about three miles, William Empy, 

Gilbert Rolfe, James Flack, and three others met us. 

I called Flack to my side and told him not to injure 
Reynolds, whatever provocation he had previously re- 
ceived from him, as I had pledged myself to protect him, 
and requested Flack to bury his feelings against Reynolds. 

Reynolds then got out of the stage, exchanged seats 
with one of the horsemen, and Flack and Reynolds rode 
by themselves about a quarter-of-a-mile, when they a^ain 
joined the company and rode together. The company 
continued to Henderson River, and took dinner at a farm- 
house owned by Mr. Alanson Hagerman. 

While staying at this farmhouse, General Wilson Law, 
and William Law, and about sixty men came up in several 
little squads. I walked out several rods to meet the com- 
pany. William and Wilson Law jumped from their horses, 
and unitedly hugged and kissed me, when many tears of 
joy were shed. 

I extract from the journal of Albert P. Rockwood, the 
acting adjutant of the company, some of the movements 
of the company: — 

Rockwood 1 s Account of the Second Division oj the Expedition to Relieve 

the Prophet. 

After breakfast at the tavern, on Thursday, 29th, had a few minutes 
deliberation. It was determined that those who had animals which were 
able to continue the pursuit, with a reasonable prospect of catching up, 
should follow at the full speed of their animals. Having heard that the 
posse had taken a westerly direction, as we believed, designing to cross 



A. D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 455 

the Mississippi at Oquaka Ferry, and so through Iowa to Missouri, 
raised an excitement, and most of us thought we were good for twelve 
miles an hour. 

Several brethren swapped their worn-out animals for fresh ones,' 
others bought; so that, in a few minutes, about two-thirds of the de- 
tachment were in swift pursuit. 

On arriving near the farmhouse where the posse stayed last night, we 
learned that they had been gone about two hours. Then General Law 
said, "Now, boys, comes the tug of war: every man and horse try your 
best;" and away we went with our blood at fighting heat. 

By frequent enquiries we learned that we were gaining upon them. 
As we approached the river, we quickened our pace, which left some 
far in the rear. 

At a watering-place, about three miles from the river, General Wil- 
son Law and William Law, Elisha Everett, Albert P. Rockwood, and 
two others took passage in a wagon. Having fresh animals, we left 
most of the detachment in the rear: yet Brother Follet and from five to 
ten others were up with us, positively charged with fight. 

While in the wagon, Wilson Law remarked, "We must overhaul them 
before they can get on the ferry-boat to cross the river, and we must 
take the stand that Joseph should not be taken over the river: there- 
fore prepare yourselves for your best licks; for if Joseph goes into Mis- 
souri, they will kill him, aud that will break us up, as our property in 
Nauvoo will become useless or of no value,'' etc., etc. 

During the conversation we emerged from the timber and saw a small 
village on the bank of the river. We put our animals at their full speed 
and charged in with drawn swords, our guns and pistols cocked andt 
primed, ready for attack. 

Our sudden appearance and hostile movements caused much excite* 
ment in the village. General Law forced the contents of a bottle of ( 
spirits down his horse. Some of our horses fell to the ground as soon ! 
as we halted. All were foaming with sweat and nearly exhausted. 

Some of the citizens refused to give us any information. Others de- 
clared, "I have done nothing," and expressed their fears and anxieties 
in various ways. I ran down to the river and down the beach, while 
William Law lau up, each in search of the ferry-boat, which happened' 
to be on the other side. No tracks or other evidence could be found 
by us that any persons nad passed the river this morning. Wilson Law 
was at this time making enquiries of the citizens. 

Some of the horsemen rode on full speed through the village of 
Oquaka in search of the Prophet, while others left their exhausted horses 
standing or lying in the streets, and ran on foot. 

As soon *as"]William Law and myself returned to the wagon, we con- 



i^ 



456 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A..D. 1843 

eluded that the posse, knowing that we were near by to rescue, had 
taken to the woods to secrete themselves or evade us; therefore Brother 
Follet and such others as they came in were ordered to search the 
timbers. In a short time a wayfaring man reported he had seen a com- 
pany passing down the river road below the village, whereupon all 
hands were ordered to the pursuit, and soon the village was clear of 
"the destroying angels" (as they called us), and they w T ere left to their 
own reflections and meditations on the strange scene. My opinion is 
that we were in the village from thirty to forty minutes, until we were 
all again on the trail. 

Those who were in the rear of our detachment saw the posse who had 
Joseph traveling: down the road. They crossed the prairie and arrived 
nearly one hour before the advance, who missed the trail about half-a- 
mile from the village, at the junction of the Monmouth and River Roads. 
On their arrival Joseph sent a messenger back to notify us where he 
was, who met us about a mile from the place where he was stopping. 

I consulted with my lawyers, and told theru that Nau- 
voo was the nearest place where writs of habeas corpus 
change of could be heard and determined They exaru- 
tomQulncy i nec * ^ e object and decided I was correct, 
toNauvoo. when we turned our steps towards Nauvoo, 
which gladdened my heart at the prospect of soon being 
in the midst of my friends again. I sent a messenger to 
inform the citizens of Nauvoo of the glad change ; and I 
requested Conover to ride ahead to Mr. Michael Crane's, on 
Honey Creek, aud call for supper for one hundred men. 

After dinner we traveled about fifteen miles. On arriv- 
ing at Crane's, I jumped out of the buggy, and instead 
of going through the gate or climbing the fence, walked up 
and jumped over the fence without touching it. Mr. Crane 
ran out and embraced me, and bade me welcome. 

A flock of turkeys and chickens were killed, and a sub- 
stantial supper was provided for all; and the company 
feasted, sang, and had a happy time that night. I showed 
my sides to Mr. Crane and the company, which still con- 
tinued black and blue from the bruises I had received from 
the pistols of Reynolds and Wilson, while riding from In- 
let Grove to Dixon eight days ago. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 457 

Nauvoo, an Ordinance Concerning Strangers, etc. 
To the Recorder of the City of Nauvoo: 

We, your petitioners, aldermen of said city, request you to notify 
the marshal to call a special meeting of the city council, at the mayor's 
court-room, this afternoon at two o'clock. 

Geo. A. Smith, | 

W. W. Phelps >■ Aldermen. 

Geo. W. Harris, J 

City council accordingly met and passed "An ordinance concerning 
strangers and contagious diseases, and for other purposes," as 
follows: — 

Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the city council of the city of Nauvoo. 
for the peace, benefit, good order, convenience, cleanliness, health 
and happiness of said ci f y, agreeable to the charter of the same, that 
the city council, marshal, constables, and city watch are hereby author- 
ized, empowered, and required to require all strangers who shall be 
entering this city, or are already tarrying, or may hereafter be tarrying 
in said city, in a civil and respectful manner to give their names, former 
residence, for what intent they have entered or are tarrying in the city, 
and answer such other questions as the officer shall deem proper or ne- 
cessary for the good order, health, or convenience of the said city; and 
for a failure or refusal on the part of strangers to give the desired in- 
formation, or for giving false names or information, they shall be sub- 
ject to the penalty of the "ordinance concerning vagrants and disorderly 
persons." 

Sec. 2. And be it further ordained that the aforesaid authorities of 
the said city are further authorized and empowered, and required to 
hail and take all persons found strolling about the city at night, after 
nine o'clock and before sunrise, and to confine them in ward for trial, 
according to the aforesaid "Ordinance concerning vagrants and dis- 
orderly persons," unless they give a good and satisfactory account of 
themselves, or offer a reasonable excuse for being thus caught out after 
nine o'clock. 

Sec, 3. And be it further ordained that the aforesaid authorities are 
further authorized, empowered, and required to require all such per- 
sons as they may suspect, to give information whether they have re- 
cently had or have been exposed to any contagious disease or diseases 
from whence they come, under the same penalties as are annexed to the 
two preceding sections of this ordinance. 

Sec. 4. And be it further ordained that the aforesaid authorities are 
further authorized, empowered, and required to enter all hotels, or 
houses of public entertainment, and such other habitations as they may 
judge proper, and require the inmates to give immediate information of 



458 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

all persons residing in said hotel or habitation, and their business, oc- 
cupation, or movements; and for a failure, non-compliance, or false in- 
formation, their license shall be a forfeit, if it be a public-house, and 
they and the transient persons subject to the penalties of the three pre- 
ceding sections. 

Sec. 5. And be it further ordained that if any of the aforesaid officers 
shall refuse or neglect to do their duty as required by this ordinance, 
they shall be fined $100, and be broke of office. 

They also passed ''An ordinance concerning confining 
or keeping animals in the city of Nauvoo;" also "An or- 
dinance concerning bathing and swimming." 

Friday, SO. — A messenger started from my company in 
the night, and arrived in Nauvoo early in the morning, 
saying that I and the company would be in 
memofthe the city about noon. Dr. Willard Richards 
prophet !** e and Wilford Woodruff arranged the seats in 
Nauvoo. t ^ e court-room, preparatory to my arrival. 

At half-past ten o'clock, the Nauvoo Brass Band and 
Martial Band started with Emma and my brother Hyrum 
to meet me; also a train of carriages, containing a number 
of the principal inhabitants. 

At eight a.m., the company with me again started ; 
arrived at the Big Mound about half -past ten, where the 
brethren decorated the bridles of their horses with the 
flowers of the prairie, and were met by a number of the 
citizens. Continued our journey; and at 11:25 a. m., I 
was gladdened, when opposite my brother Hyrum' s farm, 
about one-and-a-half miles east of the Temple, with see- 
ing the train approaching towards us; and I directed 
Colonel Eockwood to place my Life Guards in their appro- 
priate position in the procession. I was in a buggy with 
Mr. Montgomery. Sheriff Reynolds and Wilson, with my 
three lawyers, Cyrus Walker, Shepherd Gr. Patrick, and 
Edward South wick, were in the stage coach with Lucien 
P. Sanger, the stage proprietor. Mr. Campbell, the sheriff 
of Lee county, and a company of about 140 were with me 
on horseback. 



A.L>. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 459 

I was a prisoner in the hands of Reynolds, the agent of 

Missouri, and Wilson, his assistant. They were prisoners 

.in the hands of Sheriff Campbell, who had delivered the 

whole of us into the hands of Colonel Markham, guarded 

by my friends, so that none of us could escape. 

When the company from the city came up, I said I 
thought I would now ride a little easier; got out of the 
buggy; and, after embracing Emma and my The Entrance 
brother Hyrum, who wept tears of joy at my IntoNauvo °- 
return, as did also most of the great company who sur- 
rounded us, (it was a solemn, silent meeting,) I mounted 
my favorite horse, "Old Charley," when the band struck 
up "Hail Columbia," and proceeded to march slowly to- 
wards the city, Emma riding by my side into town. 

The carriages having formed in line, the company with 
me followed next, and the citizens fell in the rear. As we 
approached the city, the scene continued to grow more 
interesting; the streets were generally lined on both sides 
with the brethren and sisters, whose countenances were 
joyous and full of satisfaction to see me once more safe. 

I was greeted with the cheers of the people and firing 
of guns and cannon. We were obliged to appoint a number 
of men to keep the streets open for the procession to pass, 
and arrived at my house about one o'clock, where my 
aged mother was at the door to embrace me, with tears 
of joy rolling down her cheeks, and my children clung 
around me with feelings of enthusiastic and enraptured 
pleasure. Little Fred, exclaimed, "Pa, the Missourians 
won't take you away again, will they?" The friends from 
Dixon gazed with astonishment and rapture to see the en- 
thusiastic attachment of my family and the Saints towards 
me. 

The multitude seemed unwilling to disperse until after 
1 had arisen on the fence and told them, "I am out of the 
hands of the Missourians again, thank God. I thank you 
all for your kindness and love to me. I bless you all in 
the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. I shall address you 



460 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

at the Grove, near the Temple, at four o'clock this after- 
noon." 

When I went to dinner with my family, Reynolds and- 
Wilson were placed at the head of the table, with abont 50 of 
my friends, and were served with the best that the table 
afforded, by my wife, whom they refused to allow me to 
see, when they so cruelly arrested and ill-treated me, 
which contrasted strongly with their treatment to me when 
I was first arrested by them, and until my friends met 
me 



A.O.1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 461 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

APPLICATION TO THE MUNICIPAL COURT OF NAUVOO FOR WRIT 
OF HABEAS CORPUS — THE PROPHET 'S SPEECH AT NAUVOO 
— PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE MUNICIPAL COURT — THE 
PRISONER DISCHARGED FROM CUSTODY. 

June 30, 1843 (continued.) — As soon as we arrived in the 
city, the Municipal Court came together, when I told 
them, "The writ of habeas corpus granted by the Master 
in Chancery at Dixon was made returnable to the nearest 
court having jurisdiction; and you are that court. 77 

A requisition was made on Reynolds to return the writ, 
who refused, when 1 signed the following petition: — 

Ihe Prophets Petition to the Municipal Court oj Nauvoo, for a Writ of 

Habeas Corpus. 

To the Honorable the Municipal Court of the City of Nauvoo, Hancock 
County, and State of Illinois: — 
Your petitioner, Joseph Smith, Sen., who has been arrested by and 
under the name of Joseph Smith, Jun., states on oath that he is now de- 
tained as a prisoner, and in the custody of Joseph H, Reynolds, in the 
said city of Nauvoo and state of Illinois, who claims to be the agent of 
the state of Missouri, and that your petitioner was arrested by oue Har- 
mon T. Wilson, by virtue of what purports to be a warrant issued by 
his Excellency, Thomas Ford, governor of the state of Illinois, in the 
county of Lee and state of Illinois, and by said Wilson, your petitioner 
was delivered into the custody of said Joseph H. Reynolds, at and with- 
in the county of Lee, aforesaid; that said supposed warrant so issued 
by his Excellency, Thomas Ford, governor as aforesaid, and the arrest 
thereupon and the imprisonment consequent thereupon by said Wilson, 
and afterwards by said Joseph H. Reynolds, is illegal and in violation 
of law, and without the authority of law, as he is informed and verily 
believes, for the following, besides other reasons, to wit — 



462 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

1st. The said supposed warrant so issued by the said governor of the 
state of Illinois as aforesaid does not confer any authority to arrest your 
petitioner, for that it commands the officers therein named to arrest one 
Joseph Smith, Jun., whereas the name of your petioner is Joseph Smith, 
Sen.; and your petitioner avers that he is not known and reputed by the 
name of Joseph Smith, Jun. 

2nd. The said supposed warrant is defective and void, for that it does 
not recite that the Joseph Smith, Jun,, mentioned therein, has been de- 
manded by the executive of the state of Missouri of the executive of the 
state of Illinois. 

3rd. Said supposed warrant is defective and void, for that it does not 
state that said Joseph Smith, Jun., therein named, has been indicted, or 
that any other legal accusation of any offense has been legally preferred, 
and is as pending against him in the said state of Missouri. 

4th. It is defective and void, for that it does not show that any legal 
foundation was furnished by the executive of the state of Missouri, 
upon which to issue the same, and your petitioner avers that the same 
was issued without due authority of law. 

5th. Said supposed warrant is in other respects defective and void. 

Oth. The said Joseph H. Reynolds has no authority to detain your 
petitioner in custody, for that he is not an officer of the state of Illinois, 
nor is he legally authorized by the said governor of the state of Illinois, 
or otherwise, as the agent of the state of Missouri in the state of Illinois, 
or in any other character and capacity, to imprison your petitioner with- 
in the said state of Illinois. 

7th. Your petitioner, before the making of the said arrest upon which 
he is now detain od and imprisoned, had been arrested for the same 
cause and upon a charge for the same offense for which he is now ar- 
rested and imprisoned, by virtue of a warrant issued by the governor of 
the said state of Illinois, upon a requisition of the executive authority 
of the said state of Missouri, and was discharged from said arrest and 
imprisonment by judgment of the circuit court of Warren county, at a 
court holden in the said county of Warren, in or about the month of 
June, A. D. 1841, in such manner as not to be liable to the said second 
arrest for the same cause. 

8th. Your petitioner is not a fugitive from justice, and has uot fled 
from the justice of the said state of Missouri, and he is not guilty and 
has not been guilty of treason in or against the state of Missouri. 

9th. Your petitioner was not and has not been within the limits of 
the said state of Missouri for more than four years next before the mak- 
ing of said arrest and imprisonment whereby he is now detained, nor 
for or during four years before any indictment or other legal accusation 
was preferred against him. 



A -U- 1W3] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 403 

10. Your petitioner avers that the said supposed warrant so issued by 
the said governor of the said state of Illinois, and under color of which 
your petitioner is now imprisoned, and the document purporting to be 
an authority to receive the said Joseph Jmith, Jr., are wholly defective 
and insufficient to legally authorize the arrest and imprisonment of your 
petitioner; copies of which supposed warrant and the supposed authority 
from the executive of the state of Missouri are hereunto annexed. 

Wherefore, your petitioner prays that a writ of habeas corpus may 
be awarded, directed to the said Joseph H. Reynolds, commanding him 
that be bring your petitioner forthwith and without delay before this 
honorable court, together witn the causes of his caption and detention, 
in order that your petitioner may be dealt with according to law; and 
your petitioner, as in duty bound, will ever pray. 

Joseph Smith, Sen. 

Subscribed and sworn to before me this 30th day of June, A. D., 
1843, at the city of Nauvoo, Illinois. 

James Sloan, 
Clerk of the Municipal Court of the City of Nauvoo. 

Whereupon the court issued the following: — 

State of Illinois, ) 
City of Nauvoo. J ss * 

The people of the state of Illinois to the marshal of said city, greet- 
ing: — 
Whereas application has been made before the Municipal Court of 
said city that the body of one Joseph Smith, Sen., of the said city of 
Nauvoo, (who is styled in the warrant by which he is held in custody, 
Joseph Smith, Jun.,) is in the custody of Joseph 3. Reynolds: These are 
therefore to command the said Joseph H. Reynolds to safely have the 
body of the said Joseph Smith, Sen., who is styled Joseph Smith, Jun., 
in his custody detained, as it is said, together with the day and cause 
of his caption and detention, by whatsoever name the said Joseph 
Smith, Sen., may be known or called, before the Municipal Court of 
said city, forthwith, to bide such order as the said court shall make in 
his behalf; and further, if the said Joseph H. Reynolds, or other per- 
son or persons having said Joseph Smith, Sen., of said city of Nauvoo, 
in custody, shall refuse or neglect to comply with the provisions of this 
writ, you, the marshal of said city, or other person axithorized to serve 
the same, are hereby required to arrest the person or persons so refusing 
or neglecting to comply as aforesaid, and bring him or them together 
with the person or persons in his or their custody, forthwith before the 
Municipal Court aforesaid, to be dealt with according to law: and here- 
in fail not, and bring this writ with you. 



464 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 184* 

Witness, James Sloan, Clerk of the Municipal Court of Nauvoo, this 
-30th day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred 
and forty-three. 

[Seal.] James Sloan, Clerk. 

Which was endorsed. 

I, Joseph H. Reynolds, the within named, do hereby return this writ,. 
with the body of Joseph Smith, with the following cause of caption and 
detention, to wit— The within named Joseph Smith was arrested on 
a warrant issued by the governor of the state of Illinois, by one Harmon 
T. Wilson, a constable of Hancock county, in the state of Illinois, on 
the 23rd day of June, A. D., 1S43, a copy of which warrant is hereunto 
annexed, and marked letter A, and delivered over to my custody as di- 
rected by said writ. The person of said Smith was, on said 23rd of 
June, in the county of Lee, and state of Illinois, by the said Wilson, de- 
livered over to my custody ; and that I received and detained \>be said 
Smith in my custody, by virtue of a certain warrant of attorney issued 
by the governor of the state of Missouri, a copy of which is hereunto 
annexed and marked letter B, directing me to receive the said Smith, 
and convey him to and deliver him to the sheriff of Daviess county, in 
the state of Missouri; and that the within detention referred to is the 
same referred to, and none other. 

Joseph H. Reynolds. 

Nauvoo, June 30, A. D., 1843. 

Executive Department, ) 
City of Jefferson. j 

Know ye that I, Thomas Reynolds, governor of the state of Missouri, 
having full trust and confidence in the integrity and abilities of Joseph 
H. Reynolds, do hereby constitute and appoint him as the agent of the 
said state of Missouri, to proceed to the state of Illinois, for the purpose 
of receiving from the proper authorities of the state one Joseph Smith. 
Jun., charged with treason by him committed against the state of Mis- 
souri, and as having fled from justice to the state of Illinois; and I do 
hereby authorize and direct said Joseph H. Reynolds to convey said 
Joseph Smith, Jun., from the state of Illinois, and deliver him to the cus- 
tody of the sheriff of Daviess county, in the state of Missouri. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be 
affixed the great seal of the state of Missouri. 

Done at the city of Jefferson, this 13th day of June, in the year of 
our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-three. 

By the Governor, 
[Seal.] Thos. Reynolds. 

James L. Minor, Secretary of State. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE OHUKCH. 465 

Thomas Ford, governor of the state of Illinois, to all sheriffs and con- 
stables of any county of the state, and to Harmon T. Wilson, of 
the county of Hancock, greeting: — 

Whereas it has been made known to me by the executive authority of 
the state of Missouri, that one Joseph Smith, Jun., stands charged with 
the crime of treason against the state of Missouri, and alleged that Jos- 
eph Smith, Jun., has fled from the justice of the said state of Missouri 
and. taken refuge iu the state of Illinois. 

Now, therefore, I, Thomas Ford, governor of the state of Illinois, 
pursuant to the constitution and laws of the United States and of this 
state, do hereby command you to arrest and apprehend the said Joseph 
Smith, Jun., if he be found within the limits of the state aforesaid, and 
cause him to be safely kept and delivered to the custody of Joseph H. 
Reynolds, Esq., who has been duly constituted the agent of the said 
state of Missouri to receive the said fugitive from the justice of said 
state, he paying all fees and charges for the arrest and apprehension of 
said Joseph Smith, Jun., and make due returns to the executive depart- 
ment of this state, of the manner in which this writ may be executed. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the 
great seal of the state to be affixed. 

Done at the city of Springfield, this 17th day of June, in the year of 
our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty- three, and of the Inde- 
pendence of the United States the sixty-seventh. 

By the Governor, 

Thomas Ford. 

Thomas Campbell, Secretary of State. 

Mr. Reynolds refused to submit to the writ, but sub- 
mitted to the attachment, and I was delivered into the 
hands of the marshal of the city. I told the court I had 
an appointment to preach to the people, and requested 
the privilege from the court, which they granted, and ad- 
journed until eight o'clock tomorrow morning. 

At five p. m., I went to the grove and delivered an ad- 
dress to the public. 

The following is a brief synopsis, as reported by Dr. 
Willard Richard and Elder "Wilford Woodruff: — 

7 he Prophet's Speech at Nauvoo— Relation of his Arrest at Dixon. The 
Right of Habeas Corpus Proceedings Under Nauvoo Charter Claimed. 
The congregation is large. I shall require attention. I discovered 

what the emotions of the people were on my arrival at this city, and I 
30 Vol V. 



46G HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IA.D. 1843 

have come here to say "How do you do?" to all parties; and I do now 
at this time say to all "How do you doT' I meet you with a heart full 
of gratitude to Almighty God, and I presume you all feel the same. I 
am well — I am hearty. I hardly know how to express my feelings. I 
feel as strong as a giant. I pulled sticks with the men coming along, 
and I pulled up with one hand the strongest man that could be found. 
Then two men tried, but they could not pull me up, and I continued to 
pull, mentally, until I pnlled Missouri to Nauvoo. But I will pass from 
that subject. 

There has been great excitement in the country since Joseph H. Rey 
nolds and Harmon T. Wilson took me; but I have been cool and dis- 
passionate through the whole. Thank God, I am now a prisoner in the 
hands of the municipal court of Nauvoo, and not in the hands of Mis- 
sourians. 

It is not so much my object to tell of my afflictions, trials and troubles 
as to speak of the writ of habeas corpus, so that the minds of all may 
be corrected. It has been asserted by the great and wise men, lawyers 
and others, that our municipal powers and legal tribunals are not to be 
sanctioned by the authorities of the state; and accordingly they want to 
make it lawful to drag away innocent men from their families and 
friends, and have them put to death by ungodly men for their religion! 

Relative to our city charter, courts, right of habeas corpus, etc., I 
wish you to know and publish that we have all power; and if any man 
from this time forth says anything to the contrary, cast it into his teeth. 

There is a secret in this. If there is not power in our charter and 
courts, then there is not power in the state of Illinois, nor in the con- 
gress or constitution of the United States; for the United States gave 
unto Illinois her constitution or charter, and Illinois gave unto Nauvoo 
her charters, ceding unto us our vested rights, which she has no right 
or- power to take from us. All the power there was in Illinois she gave 
to Nauvoo; and any man that says to the contrary is a fool. 

The municipal court has all the power to issue and determine writs 
of habeas corpus within the limits of this city that the legislature can 
confer. This city has all the power that the state courts have, and was 
given by the same authority — the legislature. 

I want you to hear and learn, Israel, this day, what is for the hap- 
piness and peace of this city and people. If our enemies are determined 
to oppress us and deprive us of our constitutional rights and privileges 
as they have done, and if the authorities that are on the earth will not 
sustain us in our rights, nor give us that protection which the laws and 
constitution of the United States and of this state guarantee unto us, 
then we will claim them from a higher power— from heaven — yea, 
from God Almighty. 



.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 4G7 

I have dragged these men here by my hand, and I will do it again; ' 
but I swear I will not deal so mildly with them again, for the time has 
come when forbearance is no longer a virtue; and if you or I are again 
taken unlawfully, you are at liberty to give loose to blood and thunder. 
But be cool, be deliberate, be wise, act with almighty power; and when 
you pull, do it effectually — make a sweep-stakes for once! 

My lot has always been cast among the warmest hearted people. In 
every time of trouble, friends, even among strangers, have been raised 
up unto me and assisted me. 

The time is come when the vail is torn off from the state of Illinois, 
and its citizens have delivered me from the state of Missouri. Friends 
that were raised up unto me would have spilt their life's blood to have 
torn me from the hands of Reynolds and Wilson, if I had asked them; 
but I told them no, I would be delivered by the power of God and 
generalship; and I have brought these men to Nauvoo, and committed 
them to her from whom I was torn, not as prisoners in chains, but as 
prisoners of kindness. I have treated them kindly. I have had the 
privilege of rewarding them good for evil. They took me unlawfully, 
treated me rigorously, strove to deprive me of my rights, and would 
have run with me into Missouri to have been murdered, if Providence 
had not interposed. But now they are in my hands; and I have taken 
them into my house, set them at the head of my table, and placed be-' 
fore them the best which my house afforded; and they were waited upon 
by my wife, whom they deprived of seeing me when I was taken. 

I have no doubt but I shall be discharged by the municipal court. 
Were I before any good tribunal, I should be discharged, as the Mis- 
souri writs are illegal and good for nothing — they are " without form 
and void." 

But before I will bear this unhallowed persecution any longer — before 
I will be dragged away again among my enemies for trial, I will spill 
the last drop of blood in my veins, and will see all my enemies in hell! 
To bear it any longer would be a sin, and I will not bear it any longer. 
Shall we bear it any longer f [One universal "No!" ran through all 
the vast assembly, like a loud peal of thunder.] 

I wish the lawyer who says we have no powers in Nauvoo may be 
choked to death with his own words. Don't employ lawyers, or pay 
them money for their knowledge, for I have learned that they don't know 
anything. I know more than they all. 

Gro ye into all the world and preach the gospel. He that believeth in 
our chartered rights may come here and be saved; and be that does not 
shall remain in ignorance. If any lawyer shall say there is more power 
in other places and charters with respect to habeas corpus than in Nau- 
voo, believe it not. I have converted this candidate for congress [point- 



468 . HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1843 

ing to Cyrus Walker, Esq. J that the right of habeas corpus is included 
in our charter. If he continues converted, I will vote for him. 

I have bee.n with these lawyers and they have treated me well; but I 
am here in Nauvoo, and the Missourians too. I got here bv a lawful 
writ of habeas corpus issued by the master in chancery of Lee county, 
and made returnable to the nearest tribunal in the fifth judicial district 
having 1 jurisdiction to try and determine such writs; and here is that 
tribunal, just as it should be. 

However indignant you may feel about the high handed oppression 
which has been raised against me by these men, use not the hand of 
violence against them, for they could not be prevailed upon to come 
here till I pledged my honor and my life that a hair of their heads should 
not be hurt. Will you all support my pledge, and thus preserve my 
honor? [One universal "Yes! " burst from the assembled thousands.] 
This is another proof of your attachment to me. I know how ready you 
are to do right. Yon have done great things, and manifested your love 
towards me in flying to my assistance on this occasion. I bless you, in 
the name of the Lord, with all the blessings of heaven and earth you 
are capable of enjoying. 

I have learned that we have no need to suffer as we have heretofore: 
we can call others to our aid. I know the Almighty will bless all good 
men: he will bless you; and the time has come when there will be such 
a flockingjto the standard of liberty as never has been or shall be here- 
after. What an era has commenced! Our enemies have prophesied 
that we would establish our religion by sword. Is it true? No. But 
if Missouri will not stay her cruel hand in her unhallowed persecutions 
against us, I restrain you not any longer. I say in the name of Jesus 
Christ, by the authority of the holy priesthood, I this day turn the key 
that opens the heavens to restrain you no longer from this time forth. 
I will lead you to the battle; and if you are not afraid to die, and feel 
disposed to spill your blood in your own defense, you will not offend me. 
Be not the aggressor: bear until they strike you on the one cheek; then 
offer the other, and they will be sure to strike that: then defend your- 
selves, and God will bear you off, and you shall stand forth clear before 
his tribunal. 

If any citizens of Illinois say we shall not have our rights, treat them 
as strangers and not friends, and let them go to hell and be damned! 
Some say they will mob us. Let them mob and be damned! If we have 
to give up our chartered rights, privileges, and freedom, which our 
fathers fought, bled, and died for, and which the constitution of the 
United States and of this state guarantee unto us, we will do it only at 
the point of the sword and bayonet. 

Many lawyer* contend for those things which are against the rights 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 469 

of men, and I can only excuse them because of their ignorance. Go 
forth and advocate the laws and rights of the people, ye lawyers. If 
not, don't get into my hands, or under the lash of my tongue. 

Lawyers say the powers of the Nauvoo charter are dangerous; but I 
ask, is the constitution of the United States or of this state dangerous? 
No. Neither are the charters granted to Nauvoo by the legislature 
of Illinois dangerous, and those who say they are are fools. We have 
not enjoyed unmolested those rights which the constitution of the 
United States of America and our charters grant. 

Missouri and all wicked men raise the hue-and-cry against us, and 
are not satisfied. Some political aspirants of this state also are raising 
the hue-and-cry that the powers in the charters granted unto the city 
of Nauvoo are dangerous; and although the general assembly have con- 
ferred them upon our city, yet the whine is raised — * 'Repeal them — take 
them away." Like the boy who swapped off his jack-knife, and then 
cried, "Daddy, daddy, I have sold my jack-knife and got sick of my 
bargain, and I want to get it back again." 

But how are they going to help themselves? Raise mobs? And what ' 
can mobocrats do in the midst of Kirkpatrickites? No better than a 
hunter in the claws of a bear. If mobs come upon you any more here, 
dung your gardens with them. We don't want any excitement; but 
after we have done all, we will rise up, Washington-like, and break off j 
the hellish yoke that oppresses us, and we will not be mobbed. 

The day before I was taken at Inlet Grove, I rode with my wife through 
Dixon to visit my friends, and I said to her, "here is a good people." 
I felt this by the Spirit of God. The next day I was a prisoner in their 
midst, in the hands of Reynolds, of Missouri, and Wilson, of Carthage. 
As the latter drove up, he exclaimed, "ha, ha, ha! • By G — , we have * 
got the Prophet now! " He gloried much in it, but he is now our pris- 
oner. When they came to take me, they held two cocked pistols to my 
head, and saluted me with — "G — d — you, I'll shoot you! I'll shoot 
you, G — d — you," — repeating these threats nearly fifty times, from 
first to last. I asked them what they wanted to shoot me for. They 
said they would do it, if I made any resistance. 

"Oh, very well," I replied; "I have no resistance to make." They 
then dragged me away, and I asked thetn by what authority they did 
these things. They said, "By a writ from the governors of Missouri 
and Illinois." I then told them I wanted a writ of habeas corpus. 
Their reply was, "G — d — you, you shau't have it," I told a man to go 
to Dixon, and get me a writ of habeas corpus. Wilson then repeated, 
*'G — d — you, you shan't have it: I'll shoot you." 

When we arrived at Dixon, I sent for a lawyer, who came; and Rey- 
nolds shut the door in his face, and would not let me speak to him, re- 



470 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

peating, "G — d — you, I'll shoot you/' I turned to him, opened my 
bosom, and told him to "shoot away. I have endured so much perse- 
cution and oppression that I am sick of life. Why, then, don't you 
shoot and have done with it, instead of talking so much about if?" 

This somewhat checked his insolence. I then told him that I would 
have counsel to consult, and eventually I obtained my wish. The 
lawyers came to me, and I got a writ of habeas corpus for myself, and 
also a writ against Reynolds and Wilson for unlawful proceedings and 
cruel treatment towards me. Thanks to the good citizens of Dixon, who 
nobly took their stand against such unwarrantable and unlawful oppres- 
sion, my persecutors could not get out of the town that night, although, 
when they first arrived, they swore I should not remain in Dixon five 
minutes, and I found they had ordered horses accordingly to proceed 
to Rock Island, I pledged my honor to my counsel that the Nauvoo 
city charter conferred jurisdiction to investigate the subject; so we 
came to Nauvoo, where I am now a prisoner in the custody of a higher 
tribunal than the circuit court. 

The charter says that "the city council shall have power and author- 
ity to make, ordain, establish, and execute such ordinances not repug- 
nant to the constitution of the United States, or of this state, as they 
may deem necessary, for the peace, benefit, and safety of the inhab- 
itants of said city." And also that "the municipal court shall have 
power to grant writs of habeas corpus in all cases arising under the 
ordinances of the city council." 

The city council have passed an ordinance "that no citizen of this 
city shall be taken out of this city by any writ, without the privilege of 
a writ of habeas corpus." There is nothing but what we have power 
over, except where restricted by the constitution of the United States. 
"But," says the mob, "What dangerous powers!" Yes — dangerous, 
because they will protect the innocent and put down mobocrats. The 
constitution of the United States declares that the privilege of the writ 
of habeas corpus shall not be denied. Deny me the writ of habeas cor- 
pus, and I will fight with gun, sword, cannon, whirlwind, and thunder, 
until they are used up like the Kilkenny cats. We have more power 
than most charters confer,, because we have power to go behind the writ 
"and try the merits of the case. 

If these powers are dangerous, then the constitution of the United 
States and of this state are dangerous; but they are not dangerous lo 
good men: they are only so to bad men who are breakers of the laws. 
So with the laws of the country, and so with the ordinances of Nauvoo: 
they are dangerous to mobs, but not to good men who wish to keep the 
laws. 

We do aot go out of Nauvoo to disturb anybody, or any city, town. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 471 

or place. Why, then, need they be troubled about us? Let them not 
meddle with our affairs, but let us alone. After we have been deprived 
of our rights and privileges of citizenship, driven from town to town, 
place to place, and state to state, with the sacrifice of our homes and 
lands, our blood has been shed, many having been murdered, and all 
this because of our religion — because we worship Almighty God accord- 
to the dictates of our own conscience, shall we longer bear these cruel- 
ties which have been heaped upon us for the last ten years in the face 
of heaven, and in open violation of the constitution and law of these 
United States and of this state? God forbid! I will not bear it. If 
they take away my rights, I will fight for them manfully and righteous- 
ly until I am used up. We have done nothing against the rights of 
others. 

You speak of lawyers. I am a lawyer, too; but the Almighty God 1 *" 
has taught me the principle of law; and the true meaning and intent of 
the writ of habeas corpus is to defend the innocent and investigate the 
subject. Go behind the writ and if the form ot one that is issued against 
an innocent man is right, he should [nevertheless] not be dragged to 
another state, and there be put to death, or be in ieopardy of life and j 
limb, because of prejudice, when he is innocent. The benefits of the 
constitution and laws are alike for all; and the great Eloheim has given 
me the privilege of having the benefits of the constitution and the writ 
of habeas corpus; and I am bold to ask for that privilege this day, and 
I ask in the name of Jesus Christ, and all that is sacred, that I may 
have your lives and all your energies to carry out the freedom which is 
chartered to us. Will you all help me? If so make it manifest by rais- 
ing the right hand (There was a unanimous response, a perfect sea of 
hands being elevated). Here is truly a committee of the whole. 

When at Dixon, a Hwyer came to me as counsel. Reynolds and Wil- 
son said I should not speak to any man, and they would shoot any man 
who should dare to speak to me. An old, gray-headed man came up 
and said I should have counsel, and he was not afraid of their pistols.^, - 

The people of Dixon were ready to take me from my persecutors, and 
I could have killed them, notwithstanding their pistols; but I had no l* 
disposition to kill any man, though my worst enemy, — not even Boggs. 
In fact, he would have more hell to live in the reflection of his past 
crimes than to die. After this, I had lawyers enough, and I obtained a 
writ for Joseph H. Reynolds and Harmon T. Wilson, for damages, as- 
sault and battery, as well as the writ of habeas corpus. 

We started for Ottawa, and arrived at Pawpaw Grove, 32 miles, 
where we stopped for the night. Esquire Walker sent Mr. Campbell, 
sheriff of Lee county, to my assistance, and he came and slept by me. 
In the morning, certain men wished to see me, but I was not allowed to 



472 HISTORY 01< THE CHURCH. [A. D. 1843 

see them. The news of my arrival had hastily circulated about the 
neighborhood, and very early in the morning the largest room in the 
hotel was filled with citizens, who were anxious to hear me preach, and 
requested me to address them. 

Sheriff Reynolds entered the room and said, pointing to me, "I wish 
you to understand this man is my prisoner, and I want you should dis- 
perse. You must not gather round here in this way." Upon whicii, 
an aged gentleman, who was lame and carried a large hickory walking- 
stick, advanced towards Reynolds, bringing his hickory upon the floor 
and said, "You damned infernal puke! we'll learn you to come here and 
interrupt gentlemen. Sit down there [pointing to a very low chair] 
and sit still. Don't open your head till General Smith gets through 
talking. If you never learned manners in Missouri, we'll teach you that 
gentlemen are not to be imposed upon by a nigger-driver. You cannot 
kidnap men here, if you do in Missouri; and if you attempt it here, 
there is a committee in this grove that will sit on your case. And, sir, 
it is the. highest tribunal in the United States, as from its decision there 
is no appeal." 

Reynolds, no doubt, aware that the person addressing him was at the 
head of a committee who had prevented the settlers on the public do- 
main from being imposed upon by land speculators, sat down in silence, 
while I addressed the assembly for an hour and a half on the subject of 
marriage, my visitors having requested me to give them my views of 
the law of God respecting marriage. 

My freedom commenced from that hour. We came direcc from Paw- 
paw Grove to Nauvoo, having got our writ directed to the nearest court 
having authority to try the case, which was the municipal court of this 
city. 

It did my soul good to see your feelings and love manifested towards 
me. I thank God that I have the honor to lead so virtuous and honest 
a people — to be your leader and lawyer, as was Moses to the children 
of Israel. Hosannah! Hosannah! Hosannah! to Almighty God, who 
has delivered us thus from out of the seven troubles. I commend you 
to His grace; and may the blessings of heaven rest upon you, in the 
name of Jesus Christ. Amen. 

President Smith then introduced Mr. Cyrus Walker to the assembled 
multitude, and remarked to him: "These are the greatest dupes, as a 
body of people, that ever lived, or I am not so big a rogue as I am re- 
ported to be. I told Mr. Warren that I would not discuss the subject of 
religion with you. I understand the gospel and you do not. You under- 
stand the quackery of law, and I do not." Mr. Walker then addressed 
the people to the effect that, from what he had seen in the Nauvoo City 
Charter, it gave the power to try writs of habeas corpus, etc. After 
which, President Smith continued as follows; — 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 473 

If the legislature have granted Nauvoo the right of determining 
cases of habeas corpus, it is no more than they ought to have done, or_ 
more than our fathers fought for. Furthermore, if Missouri continues \ 
her warfare, and to issue her writs against me and this people unlaw- 
fully and unjustly, as she has done, and to take away and trample upon 
our rights, I swear, in the name of Almighty God, and with uplifted 
hands to heaven, I will spill my heart's blood in our defense. They 
shall not take away our rights; and if they don't stop leading me by the 
nose, I will lead them by the nose; and if they don't let me alone, I 
will turn up the world — I will make war. When we shake our own j 
bushes, we want to catch our own berries. The lawyers themselves 
acknowledge that we have all power granted us in our charters that we 
could ask for — that we had more power than any other court in the ■< 
state; for all other courts were restricted, while ours was not; and I 
thank God Almierhty for it. I will not be rode down to hell by the Mis- 
sourians any longer; and it is my privilege to speak in my own defense; 
and I appeal to your integrity and honor that you will stand by and 
help me, according to the covenant you have this day made. 

While I was speaking, Reynolds and Wilson started for 
Carthage, in company with Lawyer Davis, of Carthage, 
threatening to raise the militia and come again and take 
me out of Nauvoo. 

Saturday, July 1. — At eight a. m., the municipal court 
met in the court-room. Present: William Marks (acting 
chief justice), Daniel H. Wells, Ne^vel K. Whitney, 
George W. Harris, Glustavus Hills, and Hiram Kimball, 
(associate justices,) to investigate the writ of habeas 
corpus. 

The following witnesses were examined — namely : Hyrum 
Smith, Parley P. Pratt, Brigham Young, George W. Pit- 
kin, Lyman Wight, and Sidney Rigdon.* 

Messrs. Walker, Patrick, Southwick, and Backman (the 
counsel on my behalf), then respectively addressed the 
court; and they exhorted the "Mormons" to stand for 
their rights — stand or fall, sink or swim, live or die. Mr. 
Mason was counselor for Reynolds. 

* The affidavits here alluded to, since they refer to events that happened in Mis- 
souri from 1831 to 1839, were transfered to the Missouri period of the history and 
will be found in the Appendix of Vol. Ill, pp. 403 to 466. 



4:74 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

After which the following order was made: — 

Order of the Municipal Court of Nauvoo. 

This day came the said Joseph Smith, Sen., in proper person; and the 
said Joseph H. Reynolds having made return of said writ of habeas 
corpus, and produced the body of said Smith, in pursuance to the man- 
date of said writ, and after hearing the evidence in support of said pe- 
tition, it is ordered and considered by the court that the said Joseph 
Smith, Sen., be discharged from the said arrest and imprisonment com- 
plained of in said petition, and that the said Smith be discharged for 
want of substance in the warrant upon which he was arrested, as well 
as upon the merits of said case, and that he go hence without delay. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the 
seal of said court, at the city of Nauvoo, this second day of July, 1843. 
[Seal.] James Sloan, Clerk. 

A Public Meeting in Eelation to the late Arrest of General Joseph Smith. 

Nauvoo, Illinois, July 1st, 1843. At a meeting oi the citizens of 
Nauvoo, held this day in the Assembly Hall, it was 

Resolved unanimously — That Messrs. Sanger and Dixon, of the town 
of Dixon, and the citizens of Dixon, Pawpaw Grove, and Lee county 
generally, in this state, receive the warmest thanks of this meeting for 
the firm patriotism, bold and decided stand taken against lawless out- 
rage and the spirit of mobocracy, as manifested in the arrest or capture 
of General Joseph Smith, while on a visit to his friends in that district 
of country, by Harmon T. Wilson and Joseph H. Reynolds pretending 
to act under authority of a writ obtained from the governor of this state ? 
given in consequence of a pretended requisition made on him from the 
executive of Missouri, for the arrest and delivery of said Joseph Smith 
unto the authorities of Missouri. In maintaining the legal rights of 
persons thus arrested, and seeing the laws of Illinois maintained, and 
the full benefits of them enjoyed by every citizen of said state, they 
have shown themselves republicans, patriots, and worthy citizens of 
this state, and have entitled themselves not only to the thanks of this 
meeting, but to that of all lovers of law and good order. With such 
citizens as these, Illinois will long enjoy the benefits of good order and 
the blessings of a free people. 

Resolved unanimously — That the foregoing resolution be published in 
the newspapers. 

[Signed.! Sidney Rigdon, Moderator. 

Willard Richards, Clerk. 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF TJJE CHURCH. 475 

A strong wind from the north-west, with thunder and 
rain in the afternoon. 

In consequence of Reynolds and Wilson leaving abruptly 
last night for Carthage, I sent Colonel Markham to learn 
what they were doing. 

A tremendous shower at Chester, Pennsylvania. Over 
twenty lives were lost, fifty bridges destroyed, besides 
many houses and stores. Damage $250,000. 

Elders Heber C. Kimball and Orson Pratt started on 
their mission to the -east, for the purpose of attending 
conferences at Cincinnati and Pittsburgh, where they will 
wait until the rest of the Twelve arrive. 



476 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 



CHAPTER XXV. 

AFTERMATH OF THE PROPHET 'S RELEASE FROM ARREST — 
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT NAUVOO — APPEALS TO 
GOVERNOR FORD FOR EMPLOYMENT OF MILITARY FORCE — 
SUPPLEMENTARY AFFIDAVITS ON AFFAIRS IN MISSOURI. 

Sunday, July 2, 1843.— A large congregation met at the 
Grove, near the Temple, and heard an interesting address 
from Elder Orson Hyde. After he closed, Messrs. Walker, 
South wick, Patrick, and Wasson spoke on the stand, stat- 
ing that I had subjected myself to the law in every partic- 
ular, and had treated my persecutors and kidnappers 
with courtesy and kindness. They also spoke on the un- 
lawful conduct of my enemies. 

Messrs. Patrick, Walker, Southwick, and Harmon Was- 
son made the following affidavit: — 

Affidavit of Attorneys. 

Shepherd G\ Patrick, Harmon Wasson, Edward Southwick, and Cy- 
rus Walker, being duly sworn, depose and say that they were in com- 
pany with Joseph H. Reynolds and Harmon T. Wilson, the former act- 
ing as agent of the state of Missouri, and having in custody Joseph 
Smith, who was styled, in the warrant by which he had been arrested. 
Joseph Smith, Jr.; and who had been delivered into the custody of said 
Reynolds by said Wilson, who had first, as an officer of the state of 
Illinois, arrested him, the said Smith, upon a warrant issued by his Ex- 
cellency Thomas Ford, to apprehend him as a fugitive from the justice 
of the state of Missouri, when it was alleged he was charged with treason 
against the said state of Missouri; that the arrest and transfer of the 
custody of said Smith took place in Lee county, Illinois; and that while 
said Joseph H. Reynolds was at Dixon, in said county, a writ of habeas 
corpus was served on him, in behalf of said Smith, commanding him to 
bring said Smith before the nearest judge or judicial tribunal in the 



A.D. 1843 J HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. 477 

fifth judicial district of the state of Illinois, authorized to hear and de- 
termine upon writs of habeas corpus; that said Harmon T. Wilson acted 
as a guard and assistant under said Joseph H. Reynolds on their journey 
from Dixon, till they arrived at the city of Nauvoo; that said Smith was 
allowed by said Reynolds to ride his horse and in a buggy on said jour- 
ney, while the said Reynolds rode in the coach, upon the assurance and 
pledge of James Campbell, Esq., the sheriff of Lee county, Illinois, who 
had said Reynolds and Wilson in custody for want of bail in a civi 
action, and upon whom they had served habeas corpus, returnable be- 
fore Judge Young at Quincy, Illinois. 

Your affiants as well as others in the company, at the same time gave 
assurance and pledges to said Reynolds that his prisoner, the said Smith, 
should not escape from him; and the said Reynolds was satisfied, as he 
avowed, with the pledges aforesaid, and expressed himself to be so at 
the time, and fully consented that the said Smith might travel on said 
journey in the manner he did. 

That the friends of said Smith met him in great numbers as he ap- 
proached the city of Nauvoo, by which place the sheriff, as these affiants 
believe, voluntarily decided to go at the request of said Smith, and upon 
representations made to him that it was the best route to Quincy. 

That no violence was offered to said Reynolds or Wilson; and that to 
the best of these affiants' knowledge and belief, no threats or intimida- 
tion were made use of to influeuce and control their conduct, either 
during the journey to or after their arrival at Nauvoo. Said Reynolds 
and Wilson dined with said Smith at his own house, and were hospit- 
ably entertained; ana after dinner, say in two hours after the arrival 
of the party in said city, a writ of habeas corpus was issued by the 
municipal court of the said city of Nauvoo in favor of said Smith, which 
was served upon said Reynolds. 

The said Reynolds made return of the writ, together with the body 
of said Smith, and alleged the causes of his capture and detention, at 
the same time denying the jurisdiction of the court, and alleging that 
he had been served with the prior writ of habeas corpus before men- 
tioned. Said Reynolds remained in Nauvoo, and a part of the time in 
the municipal court-room, and sometime after the examination of the 
writ of habeas corpus issued by the municipal court had commenced, 
and, as your affiants believe, during the whole sitting of the court on 
Friday afternoon, the oOth of June, and then departed for Carthage, 
after a patient examination of the fact and matter of law set forth in 
complainant's petition, which said examination lasted from Friday 
afternoon till the next day, Saturday, at night. The said Smith was 
discharged as for defects in the warrant under which he had been ar- 
rested, and was imprisoned, as upon the merits of the case by the said 



478 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

municipal court; and these affiants further say that said Reynolds and 
Wilson were, before they arrived at the city of Nauvoo, and while they 
were there, assured by the said Smith and many of the company who 
had traveled together from Dixon, (these affiants among the number,) 
that they should be protected from violence; and that the said Smith 
did publicly declare in Nauvoo, to the people there assembled, that his 
honor was pledged that said Reynolds should be protected from vio- 
lence, and requested every one to preserve his pledge inviolate. 

These affiants state further that no violence or threats, to their knowl- 
edge or belief, were made use of towards the said Reynolds or the said 
Wilson, either before or after their arrival at Nauvoo; but the numbers 
who met and accompanied the said Smith and his escort on the journey, 
conducted themselves in an orderly and peaceable manner, and mani- 
fested only their attachment to said Smith, and joy to find him safe in 
the custody of the laws of the state of Illinois; all of which facts are 
true, to the best of the knowledge and recollection of the affiants. 

Shepherd G. Patrick, 
Cyrus Walker, 
E. Southwigk, 
Harmon Wasson. 
Sworn to, etc. 

Colonel Markham, Mr. Sanger, and myself also made 
affidavits on the same subject. 

Judge Adams came from Carthage and stated that Wil- 
son and Reynolds were inciting the people to mobocracy, 
and sending a petition to Governor Ford for a posse to re- 
take me. 

A petition to the governor, praying him not to issue any 
more writs, was immediately made out, and signed by 
about 150 citizens of Nauvoo; and also 

A remonstrance against the Carthage proceedings was 
gotten up. Signed and forwarded the same to Carthage by 
Messrs. Southwick and Patrick. 

I directed the clerk to make a transcript of the proceed- 
ings before the municipal court, to forward to the gov- 
ernor, and to which he attached the following certificate: — 

Certification of Documents. 

I, James Sloan, Clerk of the Municipal Court of the city of Nauvoo, 
Illinois, do hereby certify that the foregoing hereunto attached papers 



A.D. 1843 j HISTORY OF IHK CHURCH. 479 

and documents— to wit, that the foregoing petition of Joseph Smith, 
Sen., and warrant from the governor of the state of Illinois, and commis- 
sion issued by Thomas Reynolds, governor of the state of Missouri, to 
Joseph H. Reynolds, and the writ of habeas corpus, and the return of 
the said Joseph H. Reynolds thereto, and endorsed thereon, are true 
copies of the papers and originals filed in this court, in the exparte case 
of Joseph Smith, Sen., upon the petition of said Smith, for a discharge 
from arrest on habeas corpus; and that the foregoing is a true copy of 
the true, full, and perfect record of the proceedings had in said case. 

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal 
of said court, at the city of Nauvoo, Illinois, this third day of July, 
A. D., 1843. 

[L. S.] James Sloan, 

Clerk of the Municipal Court 
of the city of Nauvoo, Illinois. 

He also made a transcript of the ordinances relating to 
habeas corpus, and attached the following certificate: — 

I, James Sloan, city recorder of the city of Nauvoo, Illinois, and 
clerk of the city council of said city, do herebv certify that the fore- 
going hereunto attached are true copies of the ordinances of said city, 
regulating the proceedings on writs of habeas corpus, the one passed 
the 8th day of August, A. D., 1842, and the other passed November 14, 
1842, both of which said ordinances are unrepealed and now in force in 
said city. 

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the cor- 
porate seal of said city of Nauvoo at said city, this 3rd day of July, A. 
D., 1843. 

[L. S.] James Sloan, 

City Recorder and Clerk of the City Concil 
of the city of Nauvoo, Illinois. 

Which documents were delivered to my lawyers, with 
instructions to see Governor Ford immediately. 

I had an interview with several Pottawattamie chiefs, 
who came to see me during my absence. 

Intervieiv with Pottawattamie Chiefs. 
(From Wilford Woodruff's Journal.; 

The Indian chiefs remained at Nauvoo until the Prophet returned 
and had his trial. During their stay they had a talk with Hyrum Smith 



480 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

in the basement of the Nauvoo House. Wilford Woodruff and some 
others were present. They were not free to talk, and did not wish to 
communicate their feelings until they could see the great Prophet. 

At length, on the 2nd day of July, 1843, President Joseph Smith and 
several of the Twelve met those chiefs in the court-room, with about 
twenty of the elders. The following is a synopsis of the conversation 
which took place as given by the interpreter: — 

The Indian orator arose and asked the Prophet if the men who were 
present were all his friends. Answer — ''Yes." 

He then said — "We as a people have long been distressed and op- 
pressed. We have been driven from our lands many times. We have 
been wasted away by wars, until there are but few of us left. The 
white man has hated us and shed our blood, until it has appeared as 
though there would soon be no Indians left. We have talked with the 
Great Spirit, and the Great Spirit has talked with us. We have asked 
the Great Spirit to save us and let us live; and the Great Spirit has told 
us that he had raised up a great Prophet, chief, and friend, who would 
do us great good and tell us whatto do; and the Great Spirit has told 
us that you are the man (pointing to the Prophet Joseph). We have 
now come a great way to see you, and hear j 7 our words, and to have 
you to tell us what to do. Our horses have become poor traveling, and 
we are hungry. We will now wait and hear your word." 

The Spirit of God rested upon the Lamanites, especially the orator. 
Joseph was much affected and shed tears. He arose and said unto 
them: "I have heard your words. They are true. The Great Spirit 
has told you the truth. Im am- your friend and brother, and I wish to 
do you good. Your fathers were once a great people. They worshiped 
the Great Spirit. The Great Spirit did them good. He was their friend; 
but they left the Great Spirit, and would not hear his words or keep 
them. The Great Spirit left them, and they began to kill one another, 
and they have been poor and afflicted until now. 

The Great Spirit has given me a book, and told me that you will soon 
be blessed again. The Great Spirit will soon begin to talk with you 
and your children. This is the book which your fathers made. I wrote 
upon it (showing them the Book of Mormon). This tells what you will 
have to do. I now want you to begin to pray to the Great Spirit. I 
want you to make peace with one another, and do not kill any more In- 
dians: it is not good. Do not kill white men; it is not good; but ask 
the Great Spirit for what jou want, and it will not be long before the 
Great Spirit will bless you, and you will cultivate the earth and build 
good houses like white men. We will give you something to eat and to 
take home with you." 

When the Prophet's words were interpreted to the chiefs, they all 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 481 

said it was good. The chief asked, "How many moons would it be be- 
fore the Great Spirit would bless them?" He [Joseph] told them, Not 
a great many. 

At the close of the interview, Joseph had an ox killed for them, and 
they were furnished with some more horses, and they went home satis- 
fied and contented. 

About six p.m., the Maid of Iowa returned to her land- 
ing at tho Nauvoo House. The company who had been 
on the expedition on board of her formed in a Return of the 
procession and walked up to my office, where ^1^^"-" 
they formed a hollow square, and sent in a dition - 
deputation to me. As soon as I had bid them welcome, I 
opened the window of my office and requested that no man 
would leave the ground until I had spoken to them. My 
brother Hyrum and I went into the hollow sqare and di- 
rected them not to allow their ranks to be broken. I then 
shook hands with each man, blessing them and welcoming 
them home. 

I then took off my hat and related to them how I was 
brought home to the midst of my friends, and how I re- 
gained my liberty. I feel, by the Spirit of the Lord, that 
if I had, fallen into your hands that you would either have 
brought me safe home, or that we should all have died in 
a heap together. 

At this time, a well dressed man, a stranger, who had 
a cloak around him, broke through the south line of the 
ranks, when the orderly sergeant took the stranger by the 
nape of the neck and kicked him outside the ranks, telling 
him not to come in again. As soon as quiet was resumed, 
I continued my address to the company. 

About dusk I dismissed the company, blessing them in 
the name of the Lord. 

My brother Hyrum then blessed them also, commending 
them for their diligence and attention to the instructions 
given by him before their departure. 

The following is the report of their doings, as reported 
by Daniel M. Burbanks: 

31 Vol.V. 



482 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Burbanks' Account of the Maid of Iowa Expedition jor the Prophet's 

Belief. 

Sunday, June 25. — The brethren were collecting through the night on 
the Maid of loiva, and commenced making preparations for the trip, all 
hands uniting in loading the boat with firewood. 

26th. — About half -past eight a. m., President Hyrum Smith, in com- 
pany with Judge Adams, came on board and instructed us to watch for 
the steamboats that may run up the Illinois river; and if any persons 
were running Brother Joseph down the river, under any pretext what- 
ever, as the Amaranth had carried the news to Missouri that Joseph 
Smith was going to be tried at Ottawa, and it had been reported that a 
company of men were armed in St. Louis and had chartered a steam- 
boat to run up to Ottawa, there to seize Joseph and kidnap him to Mis- 
souri; — and if we saw such a boat, we were to rescue Joseph, at all 
hazards and bring him to Nauvoo. 

President Hyrum then blessed the company in the name of the Lord, 
and the Little Maid started at a quarter-past nine a.m., down the Mis- 
sissippi river, with the following persons on board — namely, Dan Jones, 
Captain of boat; Daniel M. Burbanks, first Pilot; Dimick B. Hunting- 
ton, Mate; Jonathan Dunham, Captain of Company; George W. Lang- 
ley, Lieutenant; John Taylor, Chaplain; John M. Bernhisel, Surgeon; 
John S. Higbee, Isaac Higbee, Lucius N. Scovil, Enoch M. King, Lewis 
Dunbar Wilson, Whitford G. Wilson, Bushrod W. Wilson, John Bair, 
Ben Rolfe, Sylvester B. Stoddard, Jatnes Aikin, Elijah Averptt, Levi 
W. Hancock, William Meeks, Calvin Reed, Robert C. Moore, Levi 
Stewart, Urban V. Stewart, Allen Stout, Welcome Chapman* William 
S. Yocum, Thomas Briley, Henry J. Young, James Worthington, 
George W. Thatcher, H. M. Alexander, Elbridge Tufts, Benjamin L. 
Clapp, Joseph C. Kingsbury, A. Young, John Fido, John Murdoch, 
John Lytle, Thomas Carrico, E. J. Sabin, Daniel Avory, H- B. M. 
Jolley, J. F. Lane, J. H. Holmes, H. P. Palmer, Benjamin Jone3, 
Robert C. Egbert, Tarlton Lewis, R. A. AUred, J. Foutz, H. Permain, 
John Binby, George W. Rosecran, and about twenty-five others whose 
names are not reported. 

At nine p. m., the boat turned the point of the bend and started up 
the Illinois river. She did not stop until opposite Diamond Isle, about 
four o'clock on Tuesday morning, 27th, where the company learned 
that the Chicago Belle had passed up the Illinois river the day previous 
with a large company of men, having a swivel gun on the forecastle, as 
they said, wita the intention of taking Joseph Smith, at all hazards, and 
conveying him to Missouri. 

The Maia next hailed at the Erie landing, five miles above Beards- 
town, where they were told that the Belle was twelve hours ahead, and 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 483 

the company on board had left word that if the Maid of lotva followed, 
they would send the "Mormon" boat and crew, with Jo Smith, to hell. 
The people advised the company on the Maid to return. Stayed there 
half-an-hour to take in wood, and then continued our journey. 

Wednesday, 28th. — At an hour before daybreak, passed Pekin, and 
the Chicago Belle aground in an island, chute. When she saw us coming, 
she backed her star-board wheel and blocked up the passage. 

When the pilot of the Maid came near, he stopped his engine and 
hailed them with his speaking trumpet, requesting a passage. They 
inquired, 4k What boat is that?" and were told, the Maid of Iowa, They 
replied, "You cannot pass, and we will see you all d — d and in hell 
first." The pilot saw a little opening in the willows of about twelve 
feet wide on her left, and signaled for the engineer to put on all steam, 
and drove her through this narrow channel and a small tow head about 
five rods, tearing the willows down on each side with the guards and 
wheelhouse, the captain crying out all the time, "Stop her! — stop her! 
For God's sake, stop her! You will smash the boat in pieces! " 

When the boat had headed round the Belle, and was once more in 
deep water, the pilot stopped the engine and asked the captain, "What 
is the matter?" The captain was afraid, and said, "My God, you will 
smash the boat to pieces, '' and was answered, "All is safe, and we will 
go ahead," leaving the Belle still aground in the channel. 

Then went to Peoria, about ten miles; found Jesse P. Harmon and 
Alanson Ripley, who had come from the horsemen with an express in- 
structing the company to proceed to the mouth of Fox River. We took 
them on board and proceeded on our way. 

Ihursdaij, 29th.— Arrived at Peru, at ten a. m. There met William 
F. Lane with an express from Charles C. Rich, reporting that the com- 
pany who had Joseph in charge had started from Fox River for Shoko- 
quon, destined to run him through the Iowa territory by that route, and 
then into Missouri, as they had learned their way by the Illinois river 
was blocked up by the Maid of Iowa, and for the boat and company to 
return to Quincy, and there await further orders. We immediately 
turned round, and on arriving at the mouth of Spoon River, landed 
Ripley and Harmon, with instructions to pursue their journey by land 
to Nauvoo. 

About one p. m., again overhauled the Chicago Belle at the Grand 
Pass while they were wooding. They hailed us to inquire "If old Jo 
was on board," and were answered, "It is none of your business," 
when another man on the hurricane deck of the Belle shouted, "Hur- 
rah, hurrah for old Jo Smith! " 

We continued our journey and again arrived at the Mississippi at nine 
p. m. In rounding to, broke the tiller rope and came to an anchor; re- 
paired the same, and then continued up the Mississippi. 



484 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Arrived at the island below Quincy about eight p. m., on Friday, 
30th, when John Taylor, Jonathan Dunham, Dan Jones, George W. 
Langley, and Daniel M. JBurbanks took the yawl and went up to Quincy 
to learn the news and see if there was any excitement. They found all 
peace, then returned' to the boat, got up steam, and went up to Quincy, 
landing about midnight. 

Saturday, July 1st. — About eight a. m., left Quincy, after steaming 
about eight miles. Sidney Roberts and another messenger came in a 
skiff with a letter from Hyrum, saying that Joseph had arrived in Nau- 
voo, and was going to be tried before the municipal court, and for us 
to hurry home as quick as possible. 

On reaching Keokuk, the engineer, Benjamin Orum (who was not a 
member of the Church) got dead drunk, when the first pilot turned 
engineer, aud the second pilot took the wheel and run the boat over the 
rapids to Nauvoo, 

Colonel Markham returned from Carthage in the* even- 
ing, and reported that on his arriving at Carthage, he 
Application found that Reynolds and Wilson had filed 
Retfke'he * h ^ ir affidavits, that he (Markham) had with 
Prophet. armed force taken Joseph Smith out of their 

hands at the head of Elleston Grove, and that they had 
also got up a petition, which was signed by the inhabit- 
ants of Carthage, and sent it to Governor Ford by the 
hands of Reynolds and Wilson, requesting him to raise a 
posse comitatus, and they would come to Nauvoo and take 
me. They were to start by the mail early this morning; 
and Markham requested Jacob Backenstos to go with the 
mail to Governor Ford and request him to suspend all 
proceedings until documents would be got to show the 
true state of the case . 

On going to the stage proprietor, he engaged and paid 
for a passage for one man. On their finding who was 
going, Reynolds and Wilson objected to his going; and 
that objection was accepted by the stage proprietor, al- 
though he had received the passage money. The proprietor 
then hired a horse from Mr. Hamilton for him [Markham] 
to ride. 

Monday, July S. — I directed the Twelve Apostles to call 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUftCH. 485 

a special conference to choose elders to go into the differ- 
ent counties of Illinois to preach the gospel and disabuse 
the public mind with regard to my arrest. 

Elders Brigham Young, Orson Hyde, Parley P. Pratt, 
John Taylor, George A. Smith, Wilford Woodruff, and 
Willard Richards met at the Grove with the elders, and it 
was decided that the following elders go on a special mis- 
sion to the following counties in the state of Illinois: 

List of Special Missionaries. 

Elijah Reed and Jesse Hitchcock, Adams and Pike; Salmon Warner 
and Jeremiah Curtis, Calhoun and Jersey; Erastus H. Derby, Orson 
Hyde, and George J. Adams, Lee; Charles C. Rich and Harvey Green, 
La Salle and De Calb; Levi Richards, Luther A. Jones, and E. Robin- 
son, Joe Davis; John Murdock, Vermillion; Daniel Avery, Schuyler; 
Zebedee Coltrin, McDonough; Truman Gillet, Benjamin Brown, and 
Jesse W. Crosby, Cook; Graham Coltrin, Fulton; John L. Butler, Ha- 
milton; David Lewis, Wayne; James Twist, Bureau; George P. Dykes 
and Samuel Br/-wn, St. Clair; Pardon Webb, Will; E. M. Webb, 
Grundy; Simeon Dunn, Warren; H. S. Eldredge, Mason; Thomas Dob- 
son, Tazewell; Cyrus Canfield, Menard; Jared Carter, Morgan; Samuel 
James and J. C.Wright, Scott; Luman H. Calkins, White; J. M. King, 
Mercer; Daniel Allen, Rock Island; U. C. Nickerson, Henry; Alfred 
Brown, Putnam; Priddy Meeks, McCoupin; Abel Butterfield and J. H. 
Van'Natta, Winnebago; William Nelson, Iroquois; Samuel Russell, Boone; 
Levi Stewart, Franklin; William Meeks, Green; W. B. Brink and 
George Chamberlin, Sangamon; Jacob Wiley, Edwards; William S. 
Covert, Stark; M. F. Bartlett and Melvin Wilbur, Bond; John Out- 
house, Alexander; Cheney G. Van Buren, Brown; James Carroll, Car- 
roll; David Jones, Fayette; John Lowry, Munroe; Urban V. Stewart, 
Williamson; James McFate, Montgomery; Lyman 0. Littlefield, Clin- 
ton; Elisha H. Groves, Madison; Theodore Curtis, Cass; Samuel Keele, 
Jefferson; James Hale, Washington; George W. Thatcher and John A. 
Forgeus, Hancock; Jacob H. Butterfield, Henderson; George Middah, 
Clay; James M. Munroe, Crawford; Ezra Chase, Coles; Jesse Chase, 
Edear; Amos Lewell, Clark; John Miller, Whitesides; William Martin, 
Christian; Reuben Parkhurst, De Witt; John Keele, Perry; George W. 
Langley, Johnson; James M. Henderson, Gallatin; James W. Cum- 
mings, Randolph; John Workman, Shelby; Elijah Fordham, Knox; 
George W. Pitkin and John Wakefield, Peoria. 

Brigham Young, President. 

W. Richards, Clerk. 



486 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

About noon, General Charles C. Rich, with twenty-five 
men, returned, formed a square in front of my house, and 
sang a new song. I went out, shook hands with each in- 
dividual, and blessed them in the name of the Lord. The 
following is a report of their expedition : 

Report oj Relief Expedition Led by Charles G. Rich. 

The detachment left the main body of the camp and started from 
McQueen's Mills about one a. m., on Monday, the 26th of June, under 
the command of General Rich, as follows: — C. C. Rich, Hosea Stout, 
John Pack, Truman R. Barlow, James W. Cummings, Daniel Carnes, 
Jesse P. Harmon, Alanson Ripley, Stephen Abbott, Charles W. Hub- 
bard, A. L. Fullmer, Joel E. Terry, Alfred Brown, Dr. Josiah Ells, 
William Edwards, Thomas Woolsey, Osmon M. Duel, Dr. Samuel Ben- 
nett, Babcock, Isaiah Whitesides, Jesse B.Nichols, Stephen Wilkin- 
son, Samuel Gulley, and four or five others, on horses, with one bag- 
gage wagon dravvn by two horses, with instructions to proceed to 
Peoria, there cross the Illinois river, and then proceed up the east side 
of the river ou the main stage road leading from Springfield to Ottawa. 
We traveled till about three o'clock in the morning, when we halted for 
about an hour and put out a guard. At daybreak we again took up the 
line of march, and traveled through the day, mostly without a road, and 
the following night till near daybreak of the 27th, and again made a 
halt for an hour and passed through Ellesville before sunrise. When 
going through that village, the people were opening their shops, and 
many persons came in their shirts to the windows. 

Dr. Ells and J. W. Cummings were behind the company about six 
rods, when one man came running, full of anxiety, and inquired, 
14 Where in the world are you all going to?" Dr. Ells, who carried a 
very sanctified face, drawled out, "We're a-hunting a wheelbarrow's 
nest;" after which, we again resumed the march, about noon halted on 
thejKic-a-poo creek, and sent Hosea Stout and A. L. Fullmer to Peoria 
to see Lawyer Charles C. Ballance and obtain what information they 
could'eet from him; and about two p. m., crossed the Illinois river at 
Peoria, where we obtained supplies for our further journey. Here we ' 
left Jesse P. Harmon and Alanson Ripley with instructions to hail the 
steamer Maid of Iowa, and procure what information they had of the 
whereabouts of Brother Joseph Smith. 

The company after crossing the river, proceeded nearly due east, till 
they intersected the stage road running from Springfield to Ottawa, at 
a small town named Washington, ten miles east of Peoria. There we 
stopped for about an hour and fed our horses. At dusk we again re- 



AD. 1843J HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 487 

sumed the march on the stage road towards Ottawa, and traveled about 
ten miles to Black Partridge Point, and camped for the night. 

At daybreak of the 2Sth, we were on the march, traveled about 35 
miles to the little town of Magnolia, and halted for noon, where we fed 
ourselves and animals at the public house of Captain William Haws 
(the captain of a company in which Hosea Stout served in the Black 
Hawk war). We again resumed the march, and about dark camped 
about two miles below Ottawa, near the Illinois river, having traveled 
over 200 miles in two days and eighteen hours with the same horses, 
which had become very tired. 

General Rich left the company about an hour before sunset, and 
about dusk crossed the Illinois river into Ottawa, and put up at Brother 
Sanger's. There he learned positively that Joseph had come as far as 
Pawpaw Grove, where he was informed that Judge Caton was absent, 
and had returned to Dixon and obtained another writ of habeas corpus, 
and had started in the direction of Quincy, Adams county; and also 
that Lucien P. Sanger had taken his stage-coach to convey Brother 
Joseph to Quincy. When he had obtained this information, he left or- 
ders for the Maid of Iowa to return with all speed to Quincy. 

Early on the morning of the 29th, General Rich returned to his com- 
pany and gave them the information, when the company started on 
their return for Nauvoo, came as far as Captain Haws', and stayed all 
night. He gave us the use of the barn to sleep in. In conversing with 
the citizens of Magnolia, they approbated our course, manifested a warm 
feeling, and offered to help us with their artillery company, if we needed 
their assistance. 

On the 30th we made a direct course for the Narrows, four miles above 
Peoria, where we recrossed the Illinois river, and camped near the 
town, 

1st July. We traveled forty miles and camped on a small creek near 
a farmhouse, where the entire company had an abundance of milk for 
the night. 

July 2nd. Early in the morning, Jesse B. Nichols went into the vil- 
lage of Gallsburg, waked up a blacksmith, and employed him ,to set a 
couple of horse-shoes. The blacksmith objected, saying it was Sunday 
morning, and, being a professor of religion, he would not do it unless 
for double price, which Nichols consented to give him. He went to the 
shop; and whilst setting the shoes, the company passed through, excit- 
ing considerable curiosity among the villagers. Two of the brethren 
remained to accompany Nichols. As he was about paying the black- 
smith for the work, a Presbyterian minister came up and said to him, 
"You ought to charge a dollar a shoe. These are Mormons; and you, 
who are a church member, have been shoeing this Mormon's horse on 



488 HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1343 

Sunday; and you ought to be brought before the church for doing it." 
Upon which, the blacksmith demanded two dollars for his work instead 
of one as agreed before. Nichols handed him one dollar, the priest 
telling the blacksmith he ought not to take it — that Joe Smith was an 
impostor, and ought to be hung. The son of Vulcan, however, took the 
dollar, but demanded more; upon which Nichols mounted his horse 
and left, amid the loud cheers of a number of spectators. 

We continued our journey to La Harpe, where we learned the full 
particulars of Brother Joseph's safe arrival and trial before the munici- 
pal court, when we made merry, composed a song, and danced, and 
proceeded to Nauvoo. 

During the entire journey the heat was extremely oppressive; and as 
the necessity of the case was very urgent, we had not time to sleep. 
It may be safely said to be one of the most rapid, fatiguing marches 
that is on record, having traveled with the same horses about 500 miles 
in seven days. 

Another copy of the remonstrance to the governor 
against his sending an armed force was made out and 
taken to the porch of the Temple, where it was signed in 
the course of the day by about 900 persons. 

lnesday,4.— About one a.m., Messrs. Walker, Patrick, 
Southwick, Markham, and Lucien Woodworth started for 
Springfield, carrying with them the affidavits, petition, 
and the doings of the municipal court. 

At a very early hour people began to assemble at the 
Fourth of-=i Grove, and at eleven o'clock near 13,000 per- 
juiy ceiebra- gons ^ a( j congregated, and were addressed in 

tion at Nau- -, • . n m i 

voo. a very able and appropriate manner by Jtlder 

Orson Hyde, who has recently been appointed on a mis- 
sion to St. Petersburg, Russia. 

A constant accession of numbers swelled the congrega- 
tion to 15,000 as near as could be estimated. 

At two p. m., they were again addressed by Elder Par- 
ley P. Pratt on redemption, in a masterly discourse, when 
I made some remarks. 

The following is the report of the speech by Wilfoid 
Woodruff: 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 489 

Ihe Prophet's Speech — Politics and Military Organization at Nauvoo. 

If the people will give ear a moment, I will address them with a few 
words in my own defense in relation to my arrest. In the first place, I 
will state to those that can hear me that I never spent more than six 
months in Missouri, except while in prison. While I was there, I was 
at work for the support of my family. I never was a prisoner of war 
during my stay, for I had nothing to do with war. I never took up a 
pistol, gun or sword: and the most that has been said on this subject by 
the Missourians is false. I have been willing to go before any governor, 
judge, or tribunal where justice would be done, and have the subject 
investigated. I could not have committed treason in that state while I 
resided there, for treason in Missouri consists in levying war against the 
state or adhering to her enemies. Missouri was at peace, and had no 
enemy that I could adhere to, had I been disposed; and I did not make 
war, as I had no command or authority, either civil or military, but 
only in spiritual matters, as a minister of the gospel. 

This people was driven from that state by force of arms, under the 
exterminating order of Governor Boggs. I have never committed 
treason. The people know very well I have been a peaceable cifizen; 
but there has been a great hue and cry about Governor Boggs being 
shot. No crime can be done, but it is laid to me. Here I was again 
dragged to the United States Court and acquitted on the merits of the 
case, and now it comes again. But as often as God sees fit for me to 
suffer, I am ready; but I am as innocent of the crimes alleged against 
me as the angels in heaven. I am not an enemy to mankind, I am a 
friend to mankind. I am not an enemy to Missouri, nor to any govern- 
or or people. 

As to the military station I hold, the cause of my holding it is as fol- 
lows: When we came here the state required us to bear arms and do 
military duty according: to law; and as the Church had just been driven 
from the state of Missouri, and robbed of all their property and arms, 
they were poor and destitute of arms. They were liable to be fined for not 
doing duty when they had not arms to do it with. They came to me for 
advice, and I advised them to organize themselves into independent 
companies and demand arms of the state. This they did. Again: 
There were many elders having license to preach, which by law exoner- 
ated them from military duty; but the officers would not release them 
on this ground. I then told the Saints that though I was clear from 
military duty by law, in consequence of lameness in one of my leers, yet 
I would set them the example and would do duty myself. They then 
said they were willing to do duty, if they could be formed into an inde- 
pendent company, and I could be at their head. This is the origin of 



490 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

the Nauvoo Legion and of my holding the office of lieutenant- 
general. 

All the power that I desire or have sought to obtain has been the 
enjoyment of the constitutional privilege for which my fathers shed 
their blood, of living in peace in the society of my wife and children, 
and enjoying the society of my friends and that religious liberty which is 
the right of every American citizen, of worshiping according to the dic- 
tates of his conscience and the revelations of God. 

With regard to elections, some say all the Latter-day Saints vote to- 
gether, and vote as I say. But I never tell any man how to vote or 
whom to vote for. But I will show you how we have been situated by 
bringing a comparison. Should there be a Methodist society here and 
two candidates running for office, one says, "If you will vote for me 
and put me in governor, I will exterminate the Methodists, take away 
their charters," &c. The other candidate says, "If I am governor, I 
will give all an equal privilege." Which would the Methodists vote for? 
Of course they would vote en masse for the candidate that would give 
them their rights. 

Thus it has been with us, Joseph Duncan said if the people would 
elect him he would exterminate the Mormons, and take away their 
charters. As to Mr. Ford, he made no such threats, but manifested a 
spirit in his speeches to give every man his rights; hence the members 
of the Church universally voted for Mr. Ford and he was elected gov- 
ernor. But he has issued writs against me the first time the Missouri- 
ans made a demand for me, and this is the second one he has issued for 
me, which has caused me much trouble and expense. 

President Smith also rehearsed the account of his being taken by 
Reynolds and Wilson, and the unlawful treatment he received at their 
hands. 

The multitude gave good attention and much prejudice seemed to be 
removed. 

Three steamers arrived in the afternoon ; one from St. 
Nauvoo's Louis, one from Quincy and one from Burling- 

visitors. t ori) bringing from eight hundred to a thous- 

and ladies and gentlemen. On the arrival of each boat, 
the people were escorted by the Nauvoo band to conven- 
ient seats provided for them, and were welcomed by the 
firing of cannon, which brought to our minds the last 
words of the patriot Jefferson, "Let this day be celebrated 
by the firing of cannon," &c. The visitors and Saints- 
appeared to be highly gratified. 



A.O. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 491 

A collection was taken in the morning to assist Elder 
Hyde to build his house ; and in the afternoon Elder Hyde 
on his own responsibility, proposed a collection to assist 
me in bearing the expenses of my persecution. 

The meeting closed about 7p.m. The day was pleas- 
ant, sky clear, and nothing tended to disturb the peace. 

I extract from the Quincy Whig: 

Report oj the Fourth of July Celebration at Nauvoo — The Quincy Whig. 

I left Quincy on the glorious Fourth, on board the splendid steamer 
Annawan, Captain Whitney, in company with a large number of ladies 
and gentlemen of this city, on a pleasure excursion to the far-famed 
city of Nauvoo. The kindness of the officers of the boat and the hearty 
welcome received from the citizens of Nauvoo on our arrival there, 
induced me to return to each and all of them my own and the thanks of 
every passenger on board the Annawan, and I am sure all alike feel 
grateful for the pleasure they experienced. We left Quincy at half- 
past eight, and reached Nauvoo at about two o'clock p. m., where we 
received an invitation from the Prophet to attend the delivering of an 
oration, which was accepted; and two companies of the Legion were 
sent to escort us to the Grove (on the hill near the Temple), where the 
oration was to be delivered. When we reached the brow of the hill, 
we received a salute from the artillery there stationed, and proceeded 
on to the Grove, where we were welcomed in a cordial and happy man- 
ner by the Prophet and his people. 

The large concourse of people assembled to celebrate the day which 
gave birth to American independence, convinced me that the Mormons 
have been most grossly slandered, and that they respect, cherish and 
love the free iustitutious of our country, and appreciate the sacrifice 
and bloodshed of those patriots who established them. I uever saw a 
more orderly, gentlemanly and hospitable people than the Mormons, 
nor a more interesting population, as the stirring appearance of their 
city indicates. Nauvoo is destined to be, under the influence and 
enterprise of such citizens as it now contains, and her natural advan- 
tages, a populous, wealthy and manufacturing city. 

The services of the day were opened by a chaste and appropriate 
prayer by an Elder whose name I do not know, which was followed by 
rich strains of vocal and instrumental music. Then followed the ora- 
tion which was an elegant, eloquent and pathetic one, as much so as ] 
ever heard on a similar occasion. 

We started home about six o'clock, all evidently much pleased 



492 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |>.D. 1843 

with Nauvoo, and gratified by the kind reception of her citizens. 

A Citizen of Quincy. 

Wednedsag, 5. — I called in the office and heard the testi- 
mony of my brother Hyrum before the municipal court 
read. 

Judge Adams and Esquire Southwick returned from 
Warsaw; found but little excitement there. Esquire 
Southwick wrote a piece for the Warsaw paper in my de- 
fense, and the justice of the decision of the municipal 
court. 

The remainder of the day I was at home. 

Thursday 6. — I remained at home all day. 

Governor Ford wrote the following letter: 

Letter of Governor Ford to Sheriff Reynolds Replying to a Petition jot 
Military jorce to Re-arrest the Prophet. 

Executive Department, 
Springfield, July 6, 1843. 

Joseph H, Reynolds, Esq.: 

Sir: — I have received your petition for a detatchment of Illinois Mil- 
itia to assist you in retaking Joseph Smith, Junior, representing him 
to have escaped from your custody after having been arrested on a 
warrant granted for his apprehension. I have also received a remon- 
strance and some affidavits adverse to the prayer of your petitition. I 
have also to inform you that I had heard, before your arrival in this 
city, of the escape of Smith, and rumors that he had been rescued by a 
military force. Deeming these remarks of sufficient importance to just- 
fy me in so doing, I did, on the 4th day of this present month, dis- 
patch a trusty and competent person as my agent to collect information 
of the various matters contained in your petition; and you will, I hope, 
at once see the propriety of all action being suspended on my part 
until I can receive the most authentic and unquestionable information 
as to the movements complained of. 

I am, most respectfully, your obedient seryant, 

Thomas Ford. 

And endorsed on the back of it: 

Mr. Backenstos: — The annexed letter to Joseph H. Reynolds is all 
the answer which I can at present make to either of the parties touch- 



A.D. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHUKOH. 493 

ing his application for a detatchment of militia to assist him in retaking 
Joseph Smith, said to be a fugitive from justice. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Thomas Ford. 

Friday, 7. — Mr. Braman, a messenger from the gov- 
ernor, arrived in Nauvoo, requesting a copy of all the 
testimony that was given before the municipal court and 
other affidavits concerning the expulsion of the Mormons 
from Missouri. 

I therefore employed James Sloan, Samuel Gulley, 
George Walker and Joseph M. Cole, in addition to my 
other clerks, who sat up all night to copy the testimony. 

In addition to the above I made the following affidavit : 

Joseph Smith's Affidavit on the Troubles in Missouri, Sent to Governor 

Ford. 



State of Illinois, ) 

r ss. 



7 
Hancock County, j , X^ 

Personally appeared before me, Ebenezer Robinson, a notary public 
within and for said county, Joseph Smith, .senior; who being duly 
sworn, says that in the year 1838 he removed with his family to the 
state of Missouri; that he purchased land and became a resident of Cald- 
well county; that he was an elder and teacher of the Church of Latter- 
day Saints; that the religious society of which he was an elder num- 
bered several thousand people, who were remarkably industrious in 
their habits, quiet in their manners and conscientious observers of 
the laws; that they had been for some years prior to his removal thither 
purchasing and improving lands, and were possessed of a vast amount 
of property, probably to the amount of $3,500,000 of real and personal 
estate; that prejudices had for a long time existed in the minds of the 
rough and uncultured people by whom his people were surrounded, ou 
account of their peculiar religious views and their different habits of 
life; that in the summer of 183S the prejudice of the people agaiust the 
deponent and his associates became great; that while in the peaceful 
pursuit of their labors upon their own farms, without any violence or 
aggression on their part, they were frequently attacked by armed mobs, 
their houses burned, their cattle stolen, their goods burned and wasted, 
many innoffensive people murdered, whole families driven out and dis- 
persed over the country at inclement seasons, and every barbarity 



494 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

which the ingenuity and malice of mobs could devise inflicted upon 
them. 

These scenes of violence raged unchecked by the civil authorities, 
and many officers of the state of Missouri were open leaders of the mob 
and shared in its crimes. The armed militia of the state were arrayed, 
without authority of law, for the purpose of driving the deponent and 
his inoffensive people out of the state, or of exterminating them if they 
should remain within it. (For proof of this fact see the order of Gov- 
ernor Boggs, dated October 27, 1838, sent herewith). That this depon- 
ent and his people received notices, warnings and orders from the civil 
and military officers of Missouri, as well as from mobs who co-operated 
with them, to leave the state, and were threatened with death if they 
refused: that this deponent with others was taken prisoner by an armed 
mob, and oppressed, imprisoned, and carried from place to place, with- 
out authority of law. That his whole people, comprising at least 15,000 
people, were driven out like wild beasts, that hundreds were murdered 
by shooting, stabbing and beating, and having their brains beaten out 
with clubs. Great numbers were starved to death; many died from 
fatigue and hardship in the fields; women were ravished, children 
murdered, and every cruelty inflicted. This deponent with his com- 
rades was imprisoned about six months and until nearly all his people 
were driven out of the state; that they were then, by order of the 
officers of the state, set at liberty and ordered to flee from the state. 
That, after they were released, they were pursued by armed men, who 
endeavored to shoot them; and they thus were pursued out of the state, 
and were in peril of their lives as long as they remained within its 
limits. 

And this deponent says that he never committed any crime against 
the laws of Missouri; that he never commanded or controlled any mili- 
tary or other force ; that he never left the state voluntarily, and hoped 
to be permitted to en-joy his rights, property and liberty, like other 
peaceable citizens; but that he was driven out by force directed by 
the officers and approved by the legislature of Missouri; and that the 
lands and homes which his people had purchased and improved are now 
in many cases occupied and enjoyed by the very men who composed 
the mobs who dispossessed them; and he believes that the desire of 
plunder was one of the inducements which led to the great wrongs 
which his people have suffered. 

And he further says that the recent requisition made upon the gov- 
ernor of Illinois, upon which a warrant for his arrest has been issued, 
has its origin in the proceedings before recited, in which this deponent, 
instead of being a ' 'fugitive" from the justice of Missouri, was driven 
at the point of the bayonet beyond its borders; and that since such ex- 
pulsion he has not been within the limits of Missouri. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 495 

Wherefore he prays that, upon examination of the premises, the gov- 
ernor of Illinois will cause the writ issued by him to be revoked, and 
this deponent released from further proceedings in the premises. 

Joseph Smith. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th day of July, A. D. 1843. 
Given under my hand and notarial seal, the day and year last 
written. 

LL. S.J Ebenezer Robinson, 

Notary Public. 
Hancock county, Illinois. 

Also Caleb Baldwin and Alanson Ripley joined me in 
the following: 

Supplementary Affidavits. 

State of Illinois, j 
Hancock County. J ss * 

Personally came before Ebenezer Robinson, a notary public in and for 
said county, Caleb Baldwin who being sworn, says that after the arrest of 
himself and others as mentioned in the foregoing affidavit, he went to 
Judge Austin A. King, and asked Judge King to grant him a fair trial 
at law, saying that with the result of such a trial, he would be satisfied. 
But Judge King answered that "there was no law for the Mormons: " 
that "they must be exterminated;" that the prisoners, this deponent 
Smith and others, must die; but that some people, as women and chil- 
dren, would have the privilege of leaving the state, but there was no 
hope for them. 

He told Judge King that his family, composed of helpless females, 
had been plundered and driven out into the prairie; and asked Judge 
King what he should do. To which Judge King answered, that if he 
would renounce his religion and forsake Smith, he would be released 
and protected. That the same offer was made to the other prisoners; 
all of whom, however, refused to do so, and were in reply told that 
they would be put to death. 

Alanson Ripley, being in like manner sworn, says that the same offer 
was made to him by Mr. Birch, the prosecuting attorney, that if he. 
would forsake the Mormons, he should be released and restored to his 
home, and suffered to remain; to which he returned an answer similar 
to that of Mr. Baldwin. 

Joseph Smith, being in like manner sworn, says that he and Mr. 
Baldwin were chained together at the time of the conversation above 
recited by Mr. Balwin; which conversation he heard, and which is cor- 



496 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1843 

rectly stated above; but that no such offer was made to him, it being 1 

understood for certain that he was to be shot, 

Joseph Smith, 
Caleb Baldwin, 
Alanson Ripley. 

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 7th day of July, A. D. 
1843. Given under my hand and notarial seal, the day and year last 
written. 

[L. S.] Ebenezer Eobinson. 

Notary Public, Hancock County, Illinois. 

Afterwards Caleb Baldwin, Lyman Wight, Parley P. 
Pratt, Hyrum Smith, James Sloan, Alexander McRae, 
and Dimick B. Huntington joined me in the following 
affidavit: 

State of Illinois, 1 
Hancock County. J ss " 

Personally appeared before Ebenezer Robinson, a notary public with- 
in and for said county, the undersigned citizens of said county; who, 
being first duly severally sworn according to law upon said oath, depose 
and say that the said affiants were citizens and residents of Caldwell 
county and the adjoining counties in the state of Missouri during the 
years A. D. 1837, 1838, and a part of A. D. 1839. That said affiants 
were personally conversant with and sufferers in the, scenes and trou- 
bles usually denominated the Mormon war in Missouri. That Governor 
Boggs, the acting executive officer of said state, together with Major- 
General Atchison and Brigadier-General Doniphan, and also the author- 
ities of the counties within which the Mormous resided, repeatedly by 
direct and public orders and threats commanded every Mormon in the 
state, Joseph Smith, their leader included, to leave the state, on peril of 
being exterminated. That the arrest of said Smith in the month of 
November, A. D. 1838, was made without authority, color, or pre- 
tended sanction of law; said arrest having been made by a mob, by 
which said Smith, among others, was condemned to be shot; but which 
said sentence was finally revoked. Said mob, resolving: itself into a pre- 
tended court of justice without the pretended sanction of law, then and 
there made out the charges and procured the pretended conviction for 
the same which are mentioned iu the indictment against the said Smith; 
by virtue of which he, the said Smith, on the requisition of the execu- 
tive of Missouri, has been recently arrested by the order of his 
excellency, Thomas Ford, governor of the state of Illinois. 

Said affiants further state that they were imprisoned with the said 



A.L>. 18431 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 4<J7 

Joseph Smith, when they and the said Smith were delivered into the 
hands of a guard to be conducted out of the state of Missouri, and by 
said guard, by the order and direction of the authorities of said coun- 
ties wherejjsaid Mormons were arrested and confined, and by order of 
the governor of the state of Missouri, were set at large, with directions 
to leave the state without delay. That said Joseph Smith and his 
affiants were compelled to leave the state for the reasons above men- 
tioned, and would not and did not leave said state for any other cause 
or reason than that they were ordered and driven from the state of 
Missouri by the governor and citizens thereof. And further say not. 

Caleb Baldwin, 
Lyman Wight, 
Parley P. Pratt, 
Hyrum Smith, 
James Sloan, 
Alexander McEae, 
Dimick B. Huntington. 

Sworn to before me, aud subscribed iu my presence, this 7th day of 
July, A. D. 1843. In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand and 
affix my notarial seal at my office in Nauvoo, this 7th day of July, A. 
D. 1843. 

Ebenezer Robinson, 

Notary Public, Hancock County, Illinois.* 

About four p. m. Elders Brigham Young, Wilford 
Woodruff, George A. Smith and Eli P. Maginn, started on 
the steamer Rapids on their eastern mission. 

Saturday, 8. — Municipal Court sat and approved of the 
copies of the evidence heard on the habeas corpus and 
revised it for the press. In the afternoon Shadrach Roundy 
started with the affidavits of Hyrum Smith, Parley P. 
Pratt, Brigham Young, Lyman Wight, and G. W. Pitkin, 
to carry to the governor. 

Bishop Miller arrived from the Pinery with one hun- 
dred and fifty-seven thousand feet of lumber, and seventy 
thousand shingles for the Temple. 

Elders Young, Woodruff, and Smith arrived at St. 
Louis, and reshipped on board the Lancet for Cincinnati. 

* The affidavits on Missouri troubles supplement those on the same subject pub- 
lished in the Appendix to Volume III of this work. Taken together they comprise 
a somewhat exhaustive history of the Latter-day Saints in the state of Missouri. 

32 Vol V. 



498 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

DISCOURSE OF THE PROPHET — HIS LOVE FOR MANKIND — PRE- 
SENTATION OF THE DOCUMENTS OF THE LATE TRIAL TO 
GOVERNOR FORD — REVELATION ON THE ETERNITY OF THE 
MARRIAGE COVENANT AND PLURALITY OF WIVES. 

Sunday ■, July 9, 7843. — Meeting at the Grove in the morn- 
ing. I addressed the Saints. 

[The following is a brief synopsis, as reported by Dr. 
Willard Richards: ] 

The Cause of the Prophet's Success — Love for His Fellow-Man. 

Joseph remarked that all was well between him and the heavens; 
that he had no enmity against any one; and as the prayer of Jesus, or 
his pattern, so prayed Joseph— "Father, forgive me my trespasses as I 
forgive those who trespass against me," for I freely forgive all men. 
If we would secure and cultivate the love of others, we must love others, 
even our enemies as well as friends. 

Sectarian priests cry out concerning me, and ask, "Why is it this 
babbler gains so many followers, and retains them?" I answer, It is 
because I possess the principle of love. All I can offer the world is a 
good heart and a good hand. 

The Saints can testify whether I am willing to lay down my life for 
my brethren. If it has been demonstrated that I have been willing to 
die for a "Mormon." I am bold to declare before Heaven that I am just 
as ready to die in defending the rights of a Presbyterian, a Baptist, or 
a good man of any other denomination; for the same principle which 
would trample upon the rights of the Latter-day Saints would trample 
upon the rights of the Roman Catholics, or of any other denomination 
who may be unpopular and too weak to defend themselves. 

It is a love of liberty which inspires my soul — civil and religious 
liberty to the whole of the human race. Love of liberty was diffused 
into my soul by my grandfathers* while they dandled me on their knees; 
and shall I want friends? No. 

* Revolutionary ancestors of the Prophet. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 499 

The inquiry is frequently made of me, "Wherein do you differ from 
others in your religious views?" In reality and essence we do not differ 
so far in our religious views, but that we could all drink into one prin- 
ciple of love. One of the grand fundamental principles of ^Mormon- 
ism" is to receive truth, let it come from whence it may. 

We believe in the Great Eloheim who sits enthroned in yonder heav- 
ens. So do the Presbyterians. If a skilful mechanic, in taking a weld- 
ing heat, uses borax, alum, etc., and succeeds in welding together iron 
or steel more perfectly then any other mechanic, is he not deserving of 
praise? And if by the principles of truth I succeed in uniting men of 
all denominations in the bonds of love, shall I not have attained a good 
object? 

If I esteem mankind to be in error, shall I bear them down? No. 
I will lift them up, and in their own way too, if I cannot persuade them 
my way is better; and I will not seek to compel any man to believe as 
I do, only by the force of reasoning, for truth will cut its own way. Do 
you believe in Jesus Christ and the Gospel of salvation which He re- 
vealed? So do I. Christians should cease wrangling and contending 
with each other, and cultivate the principles of union and friendship in 
their midst; and they will do it before the millennium can be ushered 
in and Christ takes possession of His kingdom. 

"Do you believe in the baptism of infants?" asks the Presbyterian. 
No. "Why?'' Because it is nowhere written in the Bible. Circumcision 
is not baptism, neither was baptism instituted in the place of circum- 
cision. Baptism is for remission of sins. Children have no sins. Jesus 
blessed them and said, "Do what you have seen me do." Children are 
all made alive in Christ, and those of riper years through faith and re- 
pentance. 

So far we are agreed with other Christian denominations. They all 
preach faith and repentance. The gospel requires baptism by immer- 
sion for the remission of sins, which is the meaning of the word in the 
original language — namely, to bury or immerse. 

We ask the sects, Do you believe this? They answer, No. I believe 
in being converted. I believe in this tenaciously. So did the Apostle 
Peter and the disciples of Jesus. But I further believe in the gift of 
the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Evidence by Peter's preach- 
ing on the day of Pentecost, Acts 2:38. You might as well baptize a 
bag of sand as a man, if not done in view of the remission of sins and 
getting of the Holy Ghost. Baptism by water is but half a baptism, 
and is good for nothing without the other half — that is, the baptism of 
the Holy Ghost. 

The Savior says, "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, 
he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." "Though we or an 



500 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1843 

angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which 
we have preached unto you, let him be accursed," according to Gala- 
tians 1:8. 

I am free today. Messengers have returned with offers of peace from 
the governor. 

This morning, [the 9th of July] Esquire Patrick and 
Colonel Markham returned from Springfield. Markham 
MarkhamOut- stated that on the 4th they drove to Beardstown 
Re^oid e s ri and hired fresh horses, and got to Springfield, 124 
Wilson. miles, about seven on the morning of the 5th, 

about two hours in advance of the Carthage mail, carry- 
ing Reynolds and Wilson, and ready with the documents 
to see the governor. The affidavits were in the possession 
of Cyrus Walker, who refused to give them up, on ac- 
count of a political squip in the .State Register, charging 
Walker with making capital stock out of my arrest to fa- 
vor his election to Congress. Markham then demanded 
them as my agent, telling him that, if he would not give 
them up, he would take them from him. Walker then 
turned and said, "I will do my duty, if it takes my head, " 
and then went with Markham and delivered the papers to 
the governor. When they received the decision of the 
governor, they started on their return home. When they 
returned to Rushville, they learned that General Moses 
Wilson* had been staying there two or three weeks, with 
ten or twelve men, waiting for an opportunity of trans- 
porting mft to Jackson county, and had only left there 
the morning previous, when they learned the decision of 
Governor fe'ord. 

In the evening, Shadrach Roundy started for Spring- 
field, to carry further affidavits and see Governor Ford. 

Monday, 10. —I rode out with Emma to the farm. 

Tuesday, 11. — I rode out with my family in the carriage. 

Wednesday, 12, — I received the following revelation in 

* This was the Gen. Moses Wilson wto was active in the Missouri persecutions 
of the Saiuts, see Vol. II, pp. 46, 191. Also Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt. 
Edition of 1874, chapt. xxi, Affidavit. Hist, of the Church, Vol. Ill, Appendix, 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF. THE CHUKCH. 501 

the presence of my brother Hyrum and Elder William 
Clayton : — 

Revelation on the Eternity of the Marriage Covenant, including the Plu- 
rality of Wives. Given through Joseph, the Seer, in Nauvoo, 
Hancock County, Illinois, July 12th, 1843.* 

Verily thus saith the Lord unto you my servant Joseph, that inas- 
much as you have inquired of my hand to know and understand where- 
in I the Lord justified my servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as also 
Moses, David, and Solomon my servants, as touching the principle and 
doctrine of their having many wives and concubines; behold and lo, I 
am the Lord thy God, and will answer thee as touching this matter. 
Therefore prepare thy heart to receive and obey the instructions which 
I am about to give unto you; for all those who have this law revealed 
unto them must obey the same; for, behold, I reveal unto you a new 
and an everlasting covenant; and if ye abide not that covenant, then 
are ye damned; for no one can reject this covenant and be permitted 
to enter into my glory; for all who will have a blessing at my hands 
shall abide the law which was appointed for that blessing and the con- 
ditions thereof, as were instituted from before the foundation of the 
world: and as pertaining to the new and everlasting covenant, it was 
instituted for the fulness of my glory; and he that receiveth a fulness 
thereof must and shall abide the law, or he shall be damned, saith the 
Lord God. 

And verily I say unto you, that the conditions of this law are these: 
All covenants, contracts, bonds, obligations, oaths, vows, performances, 
connections, associations, or expectations that are not made and entered 
into and sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, of him who is anointed, 
both as well for time and for all eternity, and that too most holy, by 
revelation and commandment, through the medium of mine anointed, 
whom I have appointed on the earth to hold this power, (and I have 
appointed unto my servant Joseph to hold this power in the last days, 
and there is never but one on the earth at a time on whom this power 
and the keys of this Priesthood are conferred,) are of no efficacy, virtue, 
or force in and after the resurrection from the dead; for all contracts 
that are not made unto this end have an end when men are dead. 

Behold, mine house is a house of oider, saith the Lord God, and not 
a house of confusion. Will I accept of an offering, saith the Lord, that 
is not made in my name? Or will I receive at your hands that which 
I have not appointed? And will I appoint unto you, saith the Lord, ex- 

* Doctrine and Covenants, section 132. For a treatise on the date of publication 
and authorship of this revelation see Introduction to this volume. 



502 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. f A.D. 1843 

cept it be by law, even as I and my father ordained unto you before 
the world was? I am the Lord thy God, and I give unto you this com- 
mandment, that no man shall come unto the Father but by me, or by 
my word, which is my law, saith the Lord; and everything that is in 
the world, whether it be ordained of men, by thrones, or principalities, 
or powers, or things of name, whatsoever they may be, that are not by 
me, or by my word, saith the Lord, shall be thrown down, and shall 
not remain after men are dead, neither in nor after the resurrection, 
saith the Lord your God; for whatsoever things remain are by me, and 
whatsoever things are not by me shall be shaken and destroyed. 
)S Therefore, if a man marry him a wife in the world, and he marry 
her not by me nor by my word, and he covenant with her so long as he 
is in the world, and she with him, their covenant and marriage are not 
of force when they are dead and when they are out of the world; there- 
fore they are not bound by any law when they are out of the world : 
therefore, when they are out of the world, they neither marry nor are 
given in marriage, but are appointed angels in heaven, which angels 
are ministering servants, to minister for those who are worthy of a far 
more and an exceeding and an eternal weight of glory : for these angels 
did not abide my law; therefore they cannot be enlarged, but remain 
separately and singly, without exaltation, in their saved condition, to 
all eternity, and from henceforth are not gods, but are angels of God 
for ever and ever. 

And again, verily I say unto you, If a man marry a wife, and make 
a covenant with her for time and for all eternity, if that covenant is 
not by me or by my word, which is my law, and is not sealed by the 
Holy Spirit of promise, through him whom I have anointed and ap- 
pointed unto this power, then it is not valid, neither of force, when 
they are out of the world, because they are not joined by me, saith the 
Lord, neither by my word. When they are out of the world it cannot 
be received there, because the angels and the gods are appointed there, 
by whom they uctnnot pass: they cannot, therefore, inherit my glory, 
for my house is a house of order, saith the Lord God. 

And again, verily I say unto you, If a man marry a wife by my word, 
which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, and it is 
sealed unto them by the Holy Spirit of promise, by him who is anointed, 
unto whom I have appointed this power and the keys of this Priest- 
hood, and it shall be said unto them.. Ye shall come forth in the first res- 
urrection; and if it be after the first resurrection, in the next resurrec- 
tion; and shall inherit thrones, kingdoms, principalities, and powers, 
dominions, all heights and depths; then shall it be written in the Lamb's 
book of life, that he shall commit no murder, whereby to shed innocent 
blood; and if ye abide in my covenant, and commit no murder whereby 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 503 

to shed innocent blood, it shall be done unto them in all things whatso- 
ever my servant hath put upon them, in time and through all eternity, 
and shall be of full force when they are out of the world; and they 
shall pass by the angels and the gods which are set there, to their ex- 
altation and glory in all things, as hath been sealed upon their heads; 
which glory shall be a fullness and a continuation of the seeds for ever 
and ever. 

Then shall they be gods, because they have no end; therefore shall 
they be from everlasting to everlasting, because they continue. Then 
shall they be above all, because all things are subject unto them. Then 
shall they be gods, because they have all power, and the angels are 
subject unto them. 

Verily, verily, I say unto you, except ye abide my law, ye cannot at- 
tain to this glory; for strait is the gate and narrow the way that leadeth 
unto the exaltation and continuation of the lives, and few there be that 
find it, because ye receive me not in the world, neither do ye know me 
But if ye receive me in the world, then shall ye know me, and shall re- 
ceive your exaltation, that where I am, ye shall be also. This is eternal 
lives, to know the only wise and true God, and Jesus Christ whom He 
hath sent. I am He. Receive ye, therefore, my law. Broad is the 
gate and wide the way that leadeth to the deaths; and many there are 
that go in thereat, because they receive me not, neither do they abide 
in my law. 

Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man marry a wife according to 
my word, and they are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, according 
to mine appointment, and he or she shall commit any sin or transgres- 
sion of the new and everlasting covenant whatever and all manner of 
blasphemies, and if they commit no murder, wherein they shed innocent 
blood,— yet they shall come forth in the first resurrection, and enter 
into their exaltation; but they shall be destroyed in the flesh, and shall 
be delivered unto the bufferings of Satan, unto the day of redemption; 
saith the Lord God. 

The blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, which shall not be forgiven 
in the world, nor out of the world, is in that ye commit murder, where- 
in ye shed innocent blood, and assent unto my death, after ye have re- 
ceived my new and everlasting covenant, saith the Lord God; and he 
that abideth not this law can in nowise enter into my glory, but shall 
be damned, saith the Lord. 

I am the Lord thy God, and will give unto thee the law of my Holy 
Priesthood, as was ordained by me and my Father before the world 
was. Abraham received all things, whatsoever he received by revela- 
tion and commandment, by my word, saith the Lord, and hath entered 
into his exaltation, and sitteth upon his throne. 



504 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Abraham received promises concerning his seed and of the fruit of 
his loins, — from whose loins ye are— viz., my servant Joseph, — which 
were to continue so long as they were in the world; and as touching 
Abraham and his seed out of the world, they should continue: both in 
the world and out of the world should they continue as innumerable as 
the stars; or, if ye were to count the sand upon the sea shore, ye could 
not number them. LXhis promise is yours also, because ye are of Abra- 
ham, and the promise was made unto Abraham; and by this law are 
the continuation of the works of my Father, wherein He glorifieth Him- 
self. Go ye, therefore, and do the works of Abraham; enter ye into 
my law, and ye shall be saved. But it' ye enter not into my law," ye 
cannot receive the promises of my Father, which He made unto Abra- 
ham. 

God commanded Abraham, and Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham to 
wife. And why did she do it? Because this was the law; and from 
Hagar sprang many people. This, therefore, was fulfilling, among 
other things, the promises. Was Abraham therefore under condemna- 
tion? Yerily, I say unto you, Nay; for I the Lord commanded it. 
Abraham was commanded to offer his son Isaac; nevertheless, it was 
written, Thou shalt not kill. Abraham, however, did not refuse, and 
it was accounted unto him for righteousness. 

Abraham received concubines, and they bare him children, and it 
was accounted unto him for righteousness, because they were given 
unto him, and he abode in my law; as Isaac also and Jacob did none 
other things than that which they were commanded, they have entered 
into their exaltation, according to the promises, and sit upon thrones, 
and are not angels, but are gods. 

David also received many wives and concubines, and also Solomon, 
and Moses my servant, as also many others of my servants, from the 
beginning of creation until this time; and in nothing did they sin, save 
in those things which they received not of me. 

David's wives and concubines were given unto him of me, by the 
hand of Nathan my servant, and others of the prophets who had the 
keys of this power; and in none of these things did he sin against me, 
save in the case of Uriah and his wife: and therefore he hath fallen 
from his exaltation and received his portion ; and he shall not inherit 
them out of the world, for I gave them unto another, saith the Lord. 

I am the Lord thy God, and I gave unto thee, my servant Joseph, an 
appointment, and restore all things. Ask what ye will, and it shall be 
given unto you, according to my word. And as ye have asked concern- 
ing adultery, verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man receiveth a wife 
in the new and everlasting covenant, and if she be with another man, 
and I have not appointed unto her by the holy anointing, she hath com- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 505 

mitted adultery, and shall be destroyed. If she be not in the new and 
everlasting covenant, and she be with another man, she has committed 
adultery; and if her husband be with another woman, and he was under 
a vow, he hath broken his vow and hath committed adultery; and if 
she hath not committed adultery, but is innocent, and hath not broken 
her vow, and she knoweth it, and I reveal it unto you, my servant Jos- 
eph, then shall you have power, by the power of my Holy Priesthood 
to take her and give her unto him that hath not committed adultery, 
but hath been faithful; for he shall be made ruler over many; for I 
have conferred upon you the keys and power of the Priesthood, where- 
in I restore all things, and make knowu unto you all things in due 
time. 

And verily, verily, I say unto you, that whatsoever you seal on earth 
shall be sealed in heaven; and whatsoever you bind on earth, in my 
name and by my word, saith the Lord, it shall be eternally bound in the 
heavens; and whosesoever sins* you remit on earth shall be remitted 
eternally in the heavens; and whosesoever sins you retain on earth 
shall be retained in heaven. 

And again, verily I say, Whomsoever you bless I will bless; and 
whomsoever you curse I will curse, saith the Lord; for I the Lord am 
thy God. 

And again, verily I say unto you, my servant Joseph, that whatso- 
ever you give on earth, and to whomsoever you give any one on earth 
by my word and according to my law, it shall be visited with blessings, 
and not cursings, and with my power, saith the Lord, and shall be 
without condemnation on earth and in heaven; for I am the Lord thy 
God, and will be with thee, even unto the end of the world and through 
all eternity; for verily I seal upon you your exaltation, and prepare a 
throne for you in the kingdom of my Father, with Abraham your 
father. Behold, I have seen your sacrifices, and will forgive all your 
sins. I have seen your sacrifices, in obedience to that which I have 
told you. Go, therefore; and I make a way for your escape, as I ac- 
cepted the offering of Abraham of his son Isaac. 

Verily, I say unto you, A commandment I give unto mine handmaid, 
Emma Smith, your wife, whom I have given unto you, that she stay 
herself, and partake not of that which I commanded you to offer unto 
her; for I did it, saith the Lord, to prove you all, as I did Abraham, and 
that I might require an offering at your hand, by covenant and sacri- 
fice; and let mine handmaid, Emma Smith, receive all those that have 
been given unto my servant Joseph, and who are virtuous and pure be- 
fore me: and those who are not pure, and have said they were pure, 
shall be destroyed, saith the Lord God; for I am the Lord thy God, and 
ye shall obey my voice: and I give unto my servant Joseph that he 



506 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

shall be made ruler over many things, for he hath been faithful over a 
few things; and from henceforth I will strengthen him. 

And I command mine handmaid, Emma Smith, to abide and cleave 
unto my servant Joseph, and to none else. But if she will not abide 
this commandment, she shall be destroyed, saith the Lord; for I am the 
Lord thy God, and will destroy her, if she abide not in my law: but if 
she will not abide this commandment, then shall my servant Joseph do 
all things for her, even as he hath said; and I will bless him, and mul- 
tiply him, and give unto him an hundredfold, in this world, of fathers 
and mothers, brothers and sisters, houses and lands, wives and chil- 
dren, and crowns of eternal lives in the eternal worlds. And again, 
verily I say, Let mine handmaid forgive my servant Joseph his tres- 
passes, and then shall she be forgiven her trespasses, wherein she has 
trespassed against me; and I the Lord thy God will bless her, and mul- 
tiply her, and make her heart to rejoice. 

And again, I say, Let not my servant Joseph put his property out of 
his hands, lest an enemy come and destroy him, for Satan seeketh to 
destroy; for I am the Lord thy God, and he is my servant; and behold 
and lo, I am with him, as I was with Abraham thy father, even unto 
his exaltation and glory. 

Now, as touching the law of the Priesthood, there are many things 
pertaining thereunto. Verily, if a man be called of my Father, as was 
Aaron, by mine own voice, and by the voice of Him that sent me, and 
I have endowed him with the keys of the power of this Priesthood, if 
he do anything in my name, and according to my law, and by my word, 
he will not commit sin, and I will justify him. Let no one, therefore, 
set on my servant Joseph; for I will justify him; for he shall do the 
sacrifice which I require at his hands for his transgressions, saith the 
Lord your God. 

And again, as pertaining to the law of the Priesthood, If any man 
espbuse a virgin, and desire to espouse another, and the first give her 
consent, and if he espouse the second, and they are virgins, and have 
vowed to no other man, then is he justified; he cannot commit adultery, 
for they are given unto him; for he cannot commit adultery with that 
that belongeth unto him and to no one else; and if he have ten virgins 
given unto him by this law, he cannot commit adultery, for they belong 
to him, and they are given unto him: therefore is he justified. But if 
one or either of the ten virgins, after she is epoused, shall be with an- 
other man, she has committed adultery, and shall be destroyed; for 
they are given unto him to multiply and replenish the earth, according 
to my commandment, and to fulfill the promise which was given by my 
Father before the foundation of the world, and for their exaltation in 
the eternal worlds, that they may bear the souls of men, for herein is 
the work of my Father continued, that he mav be glorified. 



A. D. 1843| HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 507 

And again, verily, verily T say unto you, If any man have a wife who 
holds the keys of this power, and he teaches unto her the law of my 
Priesthood as pertaining to these things, then shall she believe and ad- 
minister unto him, or she shall be destroyed, saith the Lord your God, 
for I will destroy her; for I will magnify my name upon all those who 
receive and abide in my law. Therefore, it shall be lawful in me, if 
she receive not this law, for him to receive all things whatsoever I, the 
Lord his God, will give uuto him, because she did not believe and ad- 
minister unto him according to my word; and she then becomes the 
transgressor, and he is exempt from the law of Sarah, -who administered 
unto Abraham according to the law, when I commanded Abraham to 
take Hagar to wife. And now, as pertaining to this law, verily, 
verily I say unto you, I will reveal more unto you hereafter; therefore 
let this suffice for the present. Behold, I am Alpha and Omega. 
Amen. 

Hyrum took the revelation and read it to Emma. 
I directed Clayton to make out deeds of certain lots of 
land to Emma and the children. 
I extract from the Neighbor: — 

Editorial, 

Joseph Smith is at Nauvoo in peace, quietly pursuing his own busi- 
ness; where we hope he will long remain free from the power of his in- 
human persecutors. 

The testimony already given* needs no comment. It shows but too 
plainly the inhumanity, recklessness, barbarism, and lawlessness of the 
state of Missouri; and we could wish, for the sake of humanity, for the 
sake of suffering innocence, and for the sake of our honored institu- 
tions, that our nation's escutcheon had never been stained by the in- 
human acts and bloody deeds of Missouri, and that the non-efficiency 
of the nation to execute law had not been so fully developed. But it is 
too true, we have witnessed most of the things mentioned by Mr. Smith, 
and we have also witnessed the carelessness and apathy of Congress on 
this subject, or their inefficiency to remedy the evil; the which, had it 
been fully investigated, aad the perpetrators of those damning crimes 
brought to condign punishment, it would have exposed a blacker his- 
tory than ever was written of any pagan, not to say Christian nation, 
and would have exposed half of that state to the charge of treason, 
murder robbery, arson, burglary, and extermination. 

* This has reference to the testimony of Hyrum Smith published in the same 
issue of the Neighbor in which the Editorial appeared. The late President John 
Taylor was the editor. 



508 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

As it is, the blood of the innocent yet cries for vengeance; and it it 
overtakes them not here, and God spares my breath, if no one else does 
it, their deeds shall be handed down to posterity, that unborn genera- 
tions may execrate these anti-republico cannibals, and tell that in the 
state of Missouri lived a horde of savages, protected and shielded by 
American republican legislative authority, who, in the face of open 
day, dragged the innocent to prison, because of their religion, — who 
murdered the oppressed that they had in their power, and fed the vic- 
tims with their flesh; that they glutted their diabolical lust on defense- 
less innocence, and violated female chastity in a manner too horrid to 
relate ; that in their mock tribunals they refused all testimony in favor 
of the accused, and thrust their witnesses into prison; that, after rob- 
bing them of their property, they drove 15,000 persons from the state; 
that they cried to the authorities of that state for redress, and from 
them to Congress; but the echo from both was — "We can render you 
no assistance. " 

Elders Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff, and George 
A. Smith arrived in Louisville, and visited Mr. Porter, 
the "Kentucky baby!" 7 feet 7 inches high, and weighing 
250 lbs. 

Sheriff Reynolds, having published a garbled statement 
of my arrest in The Old School Democrat, [St. Louis] it 
was replied to by Esq. Southwick in the same paper. 



A.D. 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 509 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

STATE OF AFFIRS IN NAUVOO, WILLARD RICHARDS — A POLITI- 
CAL TRICK, ILLINOIS STATE REGISTER — BURDEN OF 7 HE 
PROPHET'S MINISTRY, DISCOURSE — ENLARGEMENT OF 
MORMONISM, "BOSTON BEE" — THE PROPHET ON POLITICS, 
DISCOURSE — MOVEMENTS OF THE APOSTLES. 

Thursday, July 13, 1843. — I was in conversation with 
Emma most of the day, and approved of the revised laws 
of the Legion. 

The Legion authorized the issuing of Legion scrip to 
the amount of $500. 

Shadrach Roundy returned from Springfield, and re- 
ported that the Governor had gone to Rock River; and he 
therefore left the affidavits in the care of Judge Adams. 
Brother Roundy had started with an old decrepit animal, 
and rode him all the way there and back again. He also 
reported that General Moses Wilson, of Missouri, had 
started from Jacksonville for Washington City. 

Elders Ezra T. Benson, Q. S. Sparks and Noah Rogers 
preached at Cabbotville, Mass. While Elder Rogers was 
preaching, some person threw stones through the wind- 
ows, and one hit Elder Benson on the thigh. The mob 
threw stones at them which flew like hail, when they left 
the room, but did not injure the brethren. 

Friday, 14. — Spent the day at home. I was visited by 
a number of gentlemen and ladies who had arrived from 
Quincy on a steamboat. They manifested kind feelings. 

Elder Jonathan Dunham started on an excursion to the 
western country. 



510 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Saturday , 15. — Spent the day at home. Weather very 
hot. 

A shower this morning wet the ground one inch. 

At six p. m. went with my family and about one hun- 
dred others on a pleasure excursion on the Maid of lotva, 
from the Nauvoo House landing to the north part of the 
city, and returned at dusk. 

A theatrical performance in the evening by Mr. Chap- 
man. 

Sunday, 16. — Preached in the morning and evening at 
the stand in the Grove, near the west of the Temple, con- 
cerning a man's foes being those of his own household. 

"The same spirit that crucified Jesus is in the breast of 
some who profess to be Saints in Nauvoo. I have secret 
enemies in the city intermingling with the Saints, etc. 
Said I would not prophesy any more, and proposed Hyrum 
to hold the office of prophet to the Church, as it was his 
birthright. ' 

"I am going to have a reformation, and the Saints 
must regard Hyrum, for he has the authority, that I 
might be a Priest of the Most High God; and slightly 
touched upon the subject of the everlasting covenant, 
showing that a man and his wife must enter into that 
covenant in the world, or he will have no claim on her in 
the next world. But on account of the unbelief of the 
people, I cannot reveal the fullness of these things at 
present." 

Elders Brigham Young and Wilford Woodruff preached 
at the house of Father Hewitt in Cincinnati. Afterwards 
went to Kentucky to attend an appointment at the Lick- 
ing Branch. Elders Wilford Woodruff and George A. 
Smith afflicted with the influenza, politically called "the 
Tyler gripe." 

Monday, 17. — At home with my brother Hyrum, con- 
versing on the Priesthood. Called at the office once, and 
in the evening visited the performance of Mr. Chapman in 
the court room. 



A.D 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 511 

Elders Brigham Young and Wilford Woodruff preached 
at Collins Pemberton's near Licking River, and blessed 
eight children. 

Tuesday, 18. — I was making hay on my farm. 

Elder Willard Richards wrote the following to Presi- 
dent Brigham Young: 

Letter of Willard Richards to Brigham Young — Detailing Current Events 

at Nauvoo. 

By this time, I suppose you would like to hear a word from the city 
of the prophets. I forgot to hand you your introduction to Gen- 
eral James Arlington Bennett; therefore I enclose it in this. Don't 
forget to remember me to the General and his delightful family most 
warmly, together with Mrs. Richards (read, seal and deliver, if it suits 
you.) As you passed our office on the 7th, I discharged my last charge 
of powder and ball over your heads: had no occasion to reload since; 
all is peace. 

Saturday j 8. Municipal court session, to compare minutes of the 
habeas corpus trial and make ready for the press. 

Sunday, 9. Beckenstos and Esquire Patrick returned from Spring- 
field, when Reynolds, Mason, &c, started from Carthage for Spring- 
field in the stage. They crowded Beckenstos out, so he borrowed a 
team, and when they arrived at Springfield, Beckenstos had been there 
six hours, seen the friends, and Governor, &c. The Governor had sent 
Mr. Breman, a special agent, to Nauvoo to learn the facts, as reports 
said, "the Mormons had rescued Jo," &c. Reynolds petitioned for a 
posse to retake Jo. Governor would not grant it, but waits the return 
of his agent. Reynolds started for Missouri. At St. Louis, 10th inst. 
he published a garbled account in the Old School Democrat. Esquire 
Southwick was in St. Louis, and refreshed Reynolds' memory by a 
reply, on the 12th inst., same paper. Governor manifested every feel- 
ing of friendship; wanted affidavits similar to those on trial, and would 
quash the writ. Joseph gave a sweet conciliatory discourse at the 
stand, expressive of good feeling to all men. This eve, Shadrach 
Roundy started for Springfield with affidavits. 

Monday, 16. Preparing minutes of trial for publication. 

Tuesday, 11. Platted my ground for a house. 

Wednesday, 12. Warsaw Message published an extra to circulate 
correct information concerning the "Mormons'' and they have given it 
correctly. George J. Adams and Hollister returned from Springfield. 
Popular opinion is going in our favor. General Wilson of Missouri 
was visiting his brother near Jacksonville, when news of the Governor's 



512 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

inaction to Reynolds arrived, and he started immediately for Washing- 
ton city (report says). Also that General Clark, or some famous mili- 
tary chief from Missouri, has been taking a survey of Nauvoo City. Do 
you believe it? Bahl It is more generally believed that Ford will 
quash the writ, issue no more, and Missouri will make no further 
attempts only by mob. Distance is but short between this and Upper 
Missouri. Is it? Bahl 

13th. Roundy returned from Springfield this p. m., less than four 
days. Governor gone to Rock River visiting; ten days or two weeks 
absence: left the affidavits with General Adams. 

14th-15th. Sun hour high p. m., president and family and private 
secretary and family, and, about one hundred more went on board the 
steamboat Maid of Iowa at Nauvoo House, and went up to north part 
of city and back. At dusk, evening, a theatre in the store chamber; 
Mr. Chapman and suite, actors. Rain this morning; wet the ground one 
inch. 

Sunday, 16th. Joseph preached all day; a. m., 27th chap. Matthew 
&c. Did not hear him. Man's foes, they are of his own house; the 
spirit that crucified Christ; same spirit in Nauvoo; referred particularly 
to — I won't say who; was it Brother Marks? Did not say. Brother 
Cole? Did not hear the sermon; why ask me. Nothing new; same as 
when you left The spirit was against Christ because of His innocence; 
so in the present case. Said he would not prophesy any more; Hyrum 
should be the prophet; (did not tell them he was going to be a priest 
now, or a king by and by; ) told the Elders not to prophesy when they 
went out preaching. 

17th. Theatre again. 18th. And again this eve. I am writing for 
your eye. 

18th. Evening, Bishop Miller arrived with 157,000 feet of lumber, 
sawed shingles, &c, about 170,000 feet in all. He says it was all 
sawed in two weeks and brought down in two more; says he has bought 
all the claims on those mills for $12,000 payable in lumber at the mills 
in three years, one third already paid for. Two saws did this job. 
Chance for as many mills as they may have a mind to build, and every 
saw can run five thousand feet per day, year round. Two saws now 
running, can deliver 157,000 every fortnight. All that is wanting is 
hands. I understand the Maid of Iowa starts for Black River, Thurs- 
day. Bishop feels well. No investigation of Nauvoo House books yet. 
Clayton tells me today the committee do not want a clerk, and Joseph 
says little about it. Showers all around us; little rain here. Joseph is 
on the prairie haying today. Wind blowing from all quarters for four 
days past. More calm after a shower. Good hay weather. Vegetation 
is drying with drought — dying, Brother Orson, if you want to criticise. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 513 

Proceedings of court to the end of Hyrum's affidavit were published 
in the last Neighbor and Times and Seasons, to be continued in the next, 
all in pamphlet when finished. Shall mail paper for you and the breth- 
ren in New York, where I will direct this. I have said nothing about 
Brothers Kimball and Pratt, and Woodruff, and Smith, and Page, &c, 
&c; but yon will understand this is a kind of family letter, I suppose^ 
Brother Woodruff's paper arrived, but no line, no letter from St. Louis. 
I have seen most of the widows since you left. Sister Young is welU 
was afflicted on Saturday with cholera morbus; called the Elders and 
right up again. Sisters Kimball is well. Sisters Woodruff is well, and 
I believe all the Sisters be's well; Sisters Pratt and Smith and all. 

19th. I send by this mail six papers to Brother Woodruff, same di- 
rection. Just met Hyrum in the street: said to nim, I am writing to the 
brethren, has our new prophet anything to say to them 4 ? "Give my 
respects to them." Elders Taylor's and Hyde's best compliments, with 
success. Great many loves to you all; mine particularly to all the 
brethren. 

Yours for ever, 

Willard. 

A shower of rain in the p. m. The son of James Em- 
mett, aged eight years, killed by lightning while stand- 
ing in his father's doorway in Bain Street. 

To show the spirit of the times, although I do not 
vouch for the accuracy of the statements, I copy from the 
Illinois State Register: 

Was the Arrest of the Prophet a Political Irtckf 

The public is already aware that^a_demand was lately made upon the 
Governor of this State for th e arrest of JoseprTSmTth, and that a writ 
was accordingly issueBXgainsThThT; We propose nowTo state some of 
the facts, "furnishing strong^groinrd of suspicion that the demand which 
was made on the Governor here, was a manoeuvre of the Whig party. 

1. A letter was shown to a gentleman of this city, by the agent of 
Missouri, from the notorious John C. Bennett to a gentleman in one of 
the western counties of that State, urging the importance of getting up 
an indictment immediately- .against Smith, f or the fi ve_or_sJx_yeax^old 
treason of_whi ch he. wa s acc usecL g^yj^ral j[ears ago. 

2. This charge had been made once before, and afterwards aband- 
oned by Missouri. It is the same charge on which Smith was arrested 
and carried before Judge Douglas and discharged two years ago. After 
that decision, the indictment against Smith was dismissed and the 
charge wholly abandoned. 

33 Vol. V. 



514 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. IA.D. 1843 

3. But in the letter alluded to, Bennett says to bis Missouri agent, 
Go to the Judge, and never leave him until he appoints a special term 
of the court; never suffer the court to adjourn until an indictment is 
found against Smith for treason. When an indictment shall have been 
found, get a copy, and go immediately to the governor, and never 
leave him until you get a demand on the governor of Illinois for 
Smith's arrest; and then dispatch some active and vigilant person to 
Illinois for a warrant, and let him never leave the governor until he 
gets it; and then let him never come back to Missouri without Smith. 

4. A special term of the circuit court of Daviess county, Missouri, 
was accordingly called on the 5th day of June last. An indictment was 
found against Smith five years old. A demand was made and a writ 
issued, as anticipated, by the 17th of the month. 

5. Bennett, it is well known, has for a year past been a mere tool in 

the hands of th^W^igLJJifiterairSErin^eJd. He~~fras~been under their 

absolute subjection and control, and has been a regular correspondent 
of the Sangamo Journal, the principal organ of the Whig party. He 
has been a great pet of both the Journal and the junto, and that* paper 
has regularly announced his removal from place to place, until latterly 
and within the last year has published more of his writings than of any 
other person except the editor. 

6. Cyrus Walker, a short time after his nomination as the Whig can- 
didate for Congress, in the 6th district, made a pilgrimage to Nauvoo, 
for the purpose of currying favor with the Mormons and getting their 
support. But in this he was disappointed, as it appeared that many of 
the Mormons were disposed to support the Democratic candidate. 
Cyrus went home disappointed and dejected; and it was generally be- 
lieved that, failing to get the Mormon vote, he would be beaten by his 
Democratic opponent. 

7. Let it be also borne in mind that the treason of which Smith was 
accused was five or six years old; that it had been abandoned as a 
charge by Missouri; that the circuit ^ourLof^^atrState sat three times 
a year; th^ ! t_^jiuth--w^^^^ermaniBtlj' settled at Nauvoo, no person 
dreaming that he would leave there for years to come; that they might 
have waite44n- _ MisOTGuTToi r a regular term of the court, if the design 
was simply to revive a charge of treason against Smith, with a perfect 
assurance that he would always be found at home, and be as subject to 
arrest at one time as another. But this delay did not suit the conspir- 
ators, as it would put off an attempt to arrest Smith until after the 
August election. 

Let it be borne in mind also that the agent of Missouri, after he had 
obtained the custody of Smith at Dixon, refused to employ a Demo- 
cratic lawyer, and insisted upon having a Whig lawyer of inferior 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 515 

abilities, simply upon the ground, as he stated, that the Democrats 
were against him. 

Let it also be borne in mind that Cyrus Walker, the Whig candidate 
for CoTigre^sv-iaaka^ulously AopjpenerL to Jxe_ within six miles of Dixon 
when Smith wa~s arrested, ready and -eonvenient-ta-W employed by 
Smith to get hitn delivered from custody; and that he was actually em- 
ployed, and actually did get Smith enlarged from custody; and withal, 
let it be remembered that John C. Bennett is the pliant tool and 
pander of the junto at Springfield; and that he was the instigator of an 
unnecessary special term in Missouri, on the 5th day of June last, for 
the purpose of getting Smith indicted. 

We say, let all these facts be borne in mind, and they produce a 
strong suspicion^tha^lbfij^holejaiEajTis a Whig conspiracy to compel 
a-Demoera1ie~~l*overnor to issue a writ against Smith, pending the 
Congressional election7~so~a^t*rinc1msj^^ ■ 

sity for Walker's and pejchap_s B rowning' s professional services in favor 
of Smitlfpto get him delivered out of the net of their own weaving, and 
thereby get the "everlasting gratitude of the Mormons and their support 
for the Whig cause. 

Thursday, 20.— I furnished Bishop Miller with $290 for 
the expedition to the Pinery. 

Friday , 21. — Rode to the farm with my daughter Julia. 

The Maid of Iowa sailed for the Pinery in Wisconsin, 
with Bishop Miller, Lyman Wight and a large company, 
with their families. 

Lieutenant-Colonel John Scott was elected Col. 1st, 
Reg., 2nd cohort of the Nauvoo Legion, to fill the vacan. 
cyof Col. Titus Billings, resigned. 

Saturday, 22. — I rode out in my buggy in the evening. 

Sister Mary Ann Holmes was brought to my house 
sick. She has been confined to her bed for upwards of 
two years. 

Elders Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff, and George 
A. Smith left Cincinnati at eleven a. m. on board the 
Adelaide, for Pittsburg. 

Elder Kimball dreamed that he was at work in a pot- 
tery, where there was a large amount of clay drawn 
together: he examined it and found it to be yellow, rotten 
stuff of no account ; and he thought it was easier to go to 



516 HISTOEY OF THE CHUECH. [A.D. 1843 

the clay bank and get new clay, which would make better 
vessels; but, after awhile he concluded to work up this 
clay into vessels, which when made proved to be rotten; 
which is a representation of the people of Cincinnati. 

Sunday, 23. — Meeting at the stand. I preached. I 
insert a brief synopsis of the discourse, reported by Dr. 
TVillard Richards: 

Discourse — Burden of the Prophet's Ministry — Friendship, 

I commence my remarks by reading this text — Lukexvi: 16: — "The 
law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of 
God is preached, and every man presseth into it." 

I do not know that I shall be able to preach much; but, with the faith 
of the Saints, may say something instructive. It has gone abroad that 
I proclaimed myself no longer a prophet. I said it last Sabbath ironic- 
ally: I supposed you would all understand. It was not that I would 
renounce the idea of being a prophet, but that I had no disposition to 
proclaim myself such. But I do say that I bear the testimony of Jesus, 
which is the spirit of prophecy. 

There is no greater love than this, that a man lay down his life for 
his friends. I discover hundreds and thousands of my brethren ready 
to sacrifice their lives for me. 

The burdens which roll upon me are very great. My persecutors 
allow me no rest, and I find that in the midst of business and care the 
spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Although I was called of my 
Heavenly Father to lay the foundation of this great work and king- 
dom in this dispensation, and testify of His revealed will to scattered 
Israel, I am subject to like passions as other men, like the prophets of 
olden times. 

Notwithstanding my weaknesses, I am under the necessity of bear- 
ing the infirmities of others, who, when they get into difficulty, hang 
on to me tanaciously to get them out, and wish me to cover their faults. 
On the other hand, the same characters, when they discover a weakness 
in Brother Joseph, endeavor to blast his reputation, and publish it to 
all the world, and thereby aid my enemies in destroying the Saints. 
Although the law is given through me to the Church, I cannot be borne 
with a moment by such men. They are ready to destroy me for the 
least foible, and publish my imaginary failings from Dan to Beersheba, 
thougn they are too ignorant of the things of God, which have been re- 
vealed to me, to judge of my actions, motives or conduct, in any cor- 
rect manner whatever. 

The only principle upon which they judge me is by comparing my 



A.D. 1843 j HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 517 

acts with the foolish traditions of their fathers and nonsensical teach- 
ings of hireling- priests, whose object and aim were to keep the people 
in ignorance for the sake of filthy lucre; or as the prophet says, to feed 
themselves, not the flock. Men often come to ine with their troubles, 
and seek my will, crying", Oh, Brother Joseph, help me! help me! But 
when I am in trouble, few of them sympathize with me, or extend to 
me relief. I believe in a principle of reciprocity, if we do live iu a 
devilish and wicked world where men busy themselves in watching for 
iniquity, and lay snares for those who reprove in the gate. 

I see no faults in the Church, and therefore let me be resurrected 
with the Saints, whether I ascend to heaven or descend to hell, or go to 
any other place. And if we go to hell, we will turn the devils out of 
doors and make a heaven of it. Where this people are, there is good 
society. What do we care where we are, if the society be good? I 
don't care what a man's character is; if he's my friend — a true friend, 
I will be a friend to him, and preach the Gospel of salvation to him, 
and give him good counsel, helping him out of his difficulties. 

Friendship is one of the grand fundamental principles of "Mormon- 
ism"; [it is designed] to revolutionize and civilize the world, and cause 
wars and contentions to cease and men to become friends and brothers. 
Even the wolf and the lamb shall dwell together; the leopard shall lie 
down with the kid, the calf, the young lion and the fatling; and a little 
child shall lead them; the bear and the cow shall lie down together, and 
the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned 
child shall play on the cockatrice's den; and they shall not hurt or 
destroy in all my holy mountains, saith the Lord of hosts. (Isaiah.) 

It is a time-honored adage that love begets love. Let us pour forth 
love — show forth our kindness unto all mankind, and the Lord will re- 
ward us with everlasting increase; cast our bread upon the waters and 
we shall receive it after many days, increased to a hundredfold. 
Friendship is like Brother Turley iu his blacksmith shop welding iron 
to iron; it unites the human family with its happy influence. 

I do not dwell upon your faults, and you shall not upon mine. 
Charity, which is love, covereth a multitude of sins, and I have often 
covered up all the faults among you; but the prettiest thing is to have 
no faults at all. We should cultivate a meek, quiet and peaceable 
spirit. \ 

Have the Presbyterians any truths Yes. Have the Baptists, Meth ■ 
odists, &c,, any truth? Yes. They all have a little truth mixed with 
error. We should gather all the good and true principles in the world 
and treasure them up, or we ^hall uot come out true "Mormons." 

Last Monday morning certain brethren came to me and said they 
could hardly consent to receive Hyrum as a prophet, and for me to re- 



518 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

sign. But I told them, "I only said it to try your faith; and it is strange, 
brethren, that you have been in the Church so long, and not yet under- 
stand the Melchisedek Priesthood.' 1 

I will resume the subject at some future time. 

It is contrary to Governor Ford's oath of office, to send a man to 
Missouri, where he is proscribed in his religious opinions; for he is 
sworn to support the Constitution of the United States and also oil this 
State, and these constitutions guarantee religious as well as civil liberty 
to all religious societies whatever. 

Monday, 24. — This morning I had a long conversation 

with Mr. Hoge, the Democratic candidate for Congress. I 

showed him the corruption and folly of the 

The Thirty- * J 

eighth vexa- governors sending an armed force to take me, 
&c, and told him this made the 38th vexa- 
tious lawsuit against me for my religion. 

Exhibition of Divine, the Fire King, in the court room. 
Settled with William and Wilson Law. They were $167 
in my debt, for which William Law gave his note. 

Tuesday, 25. — During this day I signed Nauvoo Legion 
scrip, a copy of one of which I insert: 

Nauvoo Legion, July 25, 1843. 
No. 406. This certificate will be received by the Nanvoo Legion, as 
one dollar in payment of debts due the Legion, and redeemable by the 
Paymaster-General on demand, with any moneys in the treasury. 

Wilson Law, Major General, 
Joseph Smith, Lieutenant- General. 
John S. Fullmer, Paymaster-General. 

Being sick, I lay on my bed in the middle of the room: 
visited by Dr. Willard Richards. 

Elder Noah Rogers administered to Sister Webster at 
Farmington, Connecticut, who had been unable to walk 
for several years past. 

Wednesday , 26. — Sister Webster arose from her bed 
this morning and walked. 

I copy from the Boston Bee: 

Prospective Enlargement of Mormonism — Missouri Rapped. 
Sir, — In my last I touched upon the vested rights of the city of the 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 519 

Saints, as they appear upon the face of the charter; and it may be 
proper hereafter to go into the merits of that document, for I hold the 
maxim good that the "Union is interested in the Union;" but at the 
present time 1 have another subject on the tapis, which more immediately 
concerns the wise and honest portions of the American people. I 
reason from facts, no matter who may cry, "hush!" as to "Mormon- 
ism" and the "disgrace" which the State of Missouri inherits from her 
barbarous treatment and unlawful extermination of the Mormon 
people. 

The great day has already been ushered in, and the voice of the 
Mormon is not only heard setting forth his own rights and preaching 
the Gospel of the Son of God in power and demonstration incontrovert- 
ible from revelation, in every city and hamlet in our wide-spread 
American Free States; but other realms and kingdoms hear tho same 
tidings; even the Indians, Australia, Pacific Islands, Great Britain, 
Ireland, Germany and the Holy Land, where God Himself once spoke, 
have heard a Mormon; and all this in the short space of twelve or four- 
teen years; yea, and measures have been taken that Russia may hear 
the "Watchman cry." 

Now, sir, "what has been done can be done." I shall not be sur- 
prised if the Mormons undertake to cope with the world. Virtue and 
truth are twin sisters of such winning charms, that honest men of every 
nation, kindred and tongue will fall in love with them; and what hin- 
ders the Mormons, with the Bible in one hand and humanity in the other, 
from Mormonizing all honest men? Nothing. The meaning of 
"Mormon," the Prophet Joe says, is "More good;' 1 and no matter 
where it is the Mormons will have it; and if they cannot obtain it by 
exertion in the world, they will merit it by faith and prayer from the 
"old promise'' of "ask and ye shall receive." 

But do not think that I, even I, have been Mormonized by what I 
write for I say nay; though I am willing to admit — and all men of 
sense will do the same — the more light, the more truth: the more truth, 
the more love; the more love, the more virtue; the more virtue, the 
mure peace; the more peace, the more heaven — what everybody wants. 
The Mormons believe rather too much for me. I can't come it. 

Another word on Missouri . When her constitution was framed, they 
commenced the preamble as follows: "We, the people of Missouri, 
&c, by our representatives in convention assembled at St. Louis on 
Saturday, the 12th day of June, 1S20, do mutually agree to establish a 
free and independent Republic," &c. Independent Republic! Well, 
some of the subsequent acts prove the truth of it, and as the broad 
folds of the constitution often conceal more than meets the eye, not- 
withstanding it is the aegis of the people to keep lawmakers and law- 



520 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D 184* 

breakers within and without bonds, let us quote from the 13th article of 
the aforesaid constitution, the 3rd paragraph: "That the people have a 
right peaceably to assemble for their common good, and to apply to 
those ested with the powers of government for redress of grievances; 
and that their right to bear arms in defense of themselves and the state 
cannot be questioned." This otherwise right of gun-fence was made, as I 
have earned, for breachy Indians, but was used by Governor Boggs as 
a sine quo non, pointed with steel and burning with brimstone, to exter- 
minate the Mormons. Truly we may ask, what is right and what is law 
contrary to the constitution? The Legislatme of Missouri acknowl- 
edged the exterminating order of Boggs as constitutional, and appropri- 
ated more than $200,000 to pay the drivers and robbers, and I may as 
well say, mobbers of the Mormons, for services rendered the State in 
1838. Gladius! Crumena! Viator. 



Shower of rain at noon. 

Thursday, 27. — I drove through the city with Father 
Morley in iny carriage. 

The Adelaide run aground on the sand bar. Elders 

Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff and 

Bright s George A. Smith were set ashore and each 

Young, et al. ^^ ^^ for p^j^^ where they ar _ 

rived at six o'clock: went to the Temperance Hall, aad 
unobserved heard Elder Joha E. Page preach against the 
sects. Here they met with Elders Heber C. Kimball and 
Orson Pratt. 

Friday, 28.— I was at home sick, and was visited by 
Father Morley. 

At noon James Sloan, the recorder, brought the desk 
containing city and Church books and papers to the 
mayor's office, as he was about to go on amissien to Ire- 
land. 

The Twelve met at Richard Savary's. Elder Young 
inquired concerning the proceedings of the Twelve in 
Cincinnati; found that Elders Kimball, Pratt and Page 
had- held a conference, organized the church, and then 
left for Pittsburg. 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 521 

Elder Page stayed a few days and overruled what had 
been done, and reorganized the church, but 

, . T . . Unwisdom 

the church was Jett m no better situation, of Eider 
Elder Young reproved Brother Page for undo- 
ing alone what three of the quorum had done together. 
He also alluded to nay instructions to be gentle and mild 
in their teachings, and not to fight the sects any more at 
present, but to win the affection of the people. 

In the evening they met at Jeremiah Cooper's house. 
Elders Young, Kimball and Smith addressed the Saints, 
numbering seventy-five. 

Saturday, 29. — I rode up to the Temple and sent a 
copy of certificate of trustee, and Granger's 

• n t^ i ' ^ ,. h Political De- 

pOWer of attorney to Keuben McBnde, Kirt- bate, Hoge 

land. Walked up to near the lodge room, 

met my brother Hyrum and had a conversation about 

Henry Gr. Sherwood. There was a political meeting at 

the Temple, when Mr. Joseph P. Hoge, candidate for 

Congress, addressed the citizens for three hours, and was 

replied to in short by Mr. Cyrus Walker. 

Council of the Twelve met in the evening at Brother 

Savary's to teach the Elders. Elder Young said: 



Vieivs of Brigham Young on Presidency. 

A man should, in the first place preside over himself, his passions, 
his person, and bring himself into subjection to the law of God; then 
pieside over his children and his wife in righteousness; then he will be 
capable of presiding over a branch of the Church. But many Elders 
are contending about presiding over churches, when they are not capa- 
ble of presiding over themselves or the least child they have. 

The first principle of our cause and work is to understand that there 
is a prophet in the Church, and that he is at the head of the Church of 
Jesus Christ on earth. 

Who called Joseph Smith to be a prophet? Did the people or God ? 
God, and not the people called him. Had the people gathered together 
and appointed one of their number to be a prophet, he would have been 
accountable to the people; but inasmuch as he was called by God, and 
not the people, he is accountable to God only and the angel who com- 
mitted the gospel to him, and not to any man on earth. The Twelve 



522 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

are accountable to the prophet, and not to the Church for the course 
they pursue; and we have learned to go and do as the prophet tells us.* 

Conference met in Utica, New York Elder John P. 
Greene in the chair. Four branches were represented, 
containing 7 elders, 5 priests, 6 teachers, 2 deacons, 
and 159 members; 1 elder, 2 priests, 1 teacher and 1 
deacon were ordained. 

Sunday, 80. — 1 was very sick, my lungs oppressed and 
niness of the overheated, through preaching last Sun- 
Prophet. day; and called for my brother Hyrum and 

William Law, and Willard Richards to lay on hands and 
pray for me. 

Elder John Taylor preached in the morning. After 
preaching, President Marks called a special conference to 
appoint recorders for baptism for the dead. Elder Sloan 
having started on his mission to Ireland, Willard Eichards 
was appointed General Church Recorder; and Joseph M. 
Cole, George Walker, Jonathan H. Hale, and J. A. W. 
Andrews, recorders for the baptisms for the dead. In 
the afternoon clerks met to organize and prepare for 
their duties. 

* The principle ir the above in the main is doubtless correct, but side by side 
with the principle there set forth should be considered the principle that modifies 
it somewhat, namely, the principle of common consent and the voice of the people 
in the government of the Church. The Lord will call whom He sees proper to call 
to His priesthood; and so far they are amenable to Him alone for the discharge of 
the duties of the priesthood. But when in the exercise of the functions of the priest- 
hood or its offices it comes to presiding over the Church or any of the branches or 
departments thereof, that can only be with the consent of those over whom they 
preside (see Doctrine and Covenents, sec. xx: 65, 66; Ibid sec. xxvi: 2; Ibid. sec. 
cvii: 22). It is evident and a well settled principle that in these relationships to 
the Church, the officers of the Church, even the President thereof and the apostles, 
as well as all others, are amenable to the Church, else why the doctrine of the 
revelations that there is not any person belonging to the Church who is exempt 
from the law of the Church, and that inasmuch as even the president of the high 
priesthood, who is also the president of the Church, (Doc. and Cov. sec. cvii) shall 
transgress, he shall be had in remembrance before the common council of the 
Church (Presiding Bishopric) assisted by twelve counselors of the high priesthood; 
that court is competent to try him, even the president of the Church; "and their 
decision upon his head shall be an end of controversy concerning him. Thus none 
shall be exempt from the justice and the law of God." The Church, in other words, 
is greater than any man in it (Doc. and Cov. sec. cvii; 81-84). 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 523 

Brothers Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith 
preached in the morning, John E. Page and Meeting in 
Orson Pratt in the afternoon, and Heber C. Pittsbur s- 
Kimball and Brigham Young in the evening, in the Tem- 
perance Hall in Pittsburg. 

A conference was held in Briton, Michigan, when 
Mephibosheth Sirine was chosen president, conference in 
Nine branches were represented, compris- Mlchl ^ an - 
ing 5 elders, 6 priests, 7 teachers, 1 deacon, and 225 
members. 

Monday, 31. — My health improving, I went to the 
prairie, sold one hundred acres of land, and called at my 
farm. Wrote to General Adams. 

The following is from Elder Woodruff's journal under 
this date : 

Enterprises in Pittsburg, 1843. 

Our quorum assembled and walked over Pittsburg. We first visited 
Mr. Curling's glass works, and saw them at work through each branch. 
We saw them make pressed, stamped and plain tumblers, large jars, 
&c. We next went on the bluff above the city, and had a view of the 
new basin that is to contain the water to be forced into it from the 
Alleghany river to water the city. From this place we had a fair view 
of the city below. It truly sends forth its columns of smoke and black- 
ness that arise from the coal fires which propel the numerous engines 
that are the mainspring of all the foundries, manufactories and works 
of the great city of Pittsburg. 

We then descended the hill and visited the city water works or reser- 
voir. The building is 150 feet long, 110 feet wide, and contains two 
engines of 200 horse power each, to drive a force pump to force the 
water from the Alleghany river into the basin on the bluff, to supply 
the wants of the citizens. The whole cost of this building, rpservoir, 
and basin was $200,000. The building is after the Koman order. The 
whole architecture, design, making and finishing the building, was 
executed by Elder Charles Beck, a member of the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter-day Saints. We visited every branch of the Milton- 
berger's iron works; saw the iron form the keel of an iron steam ship 
of war, 140 feet long. The vessel is designed to navigate Lake Erie, 

Tuesday, August l, 1843. — I was very sick at home in the 
morning. At four p. m. I rode up to the Temple and 



524 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

complained to the clerks that Mr. Hamilton had got a tax 
"title from the sheriff on one of my city lots. Mr. Bagby, 
the collector, came up in the midst of our 
Altercation ^ conversation, and when asked about it denied 
all knowledge of it. I told him that I had 
always been ready to pay all my taxes when I was called 
upon; and I did not think it gentlemanly treatment to 
sell any of my lots for taxes ; and I told him that he was 
continually abusing the citizens here. Bagby called me 
a liar, and picked up a stone to throw at me, which so 
enraged me that I followed him a few steps, and struck 
him two or three times. Esquire Daniel H. Wells stepped 
between us and succeeded in separating us. I told the 
Esquire to assess the fine for the assault, and I was will- 
ing to pay it. He not doing it, I rode down to Alderman 
Whitney, stated the circumstances, and he imposed a fine 
which I paid, and then returned to the political meeting. 
Bagby stayed awhile, muttering threats against me. I 
went home, commenced to work awhile, buc soon was 
^yery sick. 

Received a private communication from a Mr, Braman, 
stating that the writ was returned to the governor and 

killed. 

Hyrum and Hoge called at the office, when Hoge 
acknowledged the power of the Nauvoo Charter habeas 
corpus. 

Esquire Walker gave a stump speech at the stand un- 
til dusk, and was immediately replied to by Esquire Hoge 
for over two hours, having lit candles for the purpose to 
hear them politically castigate each other. 

The Twelve visited Alleghany City. Elders Young, 
Page and Kimball preached in the evening. 

The Temple is progressing steadily. The walls of the 
noble edifice continue to rise, and its completion is looked 
forward to with great interest and anxiety by many. 

All kinds of improvements are going on rapidly in Nau- 
voo and vicinity. Houses are going up in every direc- 



A. D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 525 

tiou in the city and farms are being inclosed without. 
"The wilderness" will soon "blossom as the rose." 

Elder Luman A. Shurtliff writes that he has traveled in 
the New England States, and recently baptized twenty 
persons. 

Wednesday, 2. — I was a little easier today and rode 
out to Jacob Baum's to borrow money. In the evening 
conversing with Dr. J. M. Bernhisel. 

A subscription has been got up to build a house for 
Elder Willard Richards, to which I subscribed a city lot. 
The brethren subscribed $25 cash, 10 cords of stone, 30 
bushels of lime, 105 days work, $59 in work, 15,900 bricks, 
glass, lumber and other materials, together with a quan- 
tity of produce. I hope the day is not far distant when 
my clerk will have a comfortable house for his family. 

Thursday, 3. — Elder Beck of Pittsburg haviug paid 
$18 for the passage of six of the Twelve Apostles to Balti- 
more, they started this morning and rode all day and 
night over the Alleghany mountains in the stage 

I continued unwell. I received $800 in specie, and a 
$200 note from Benjamin Meginness for one hundred 
acres of land. 

Friday, 4. — My health improving, I rode out to the 
farm. In the evening went with Emma to visit Elder 
Cahoon, where I met my brother Hyrum and his wife. 

Saturday, 5. — Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kim- 
ball, Orson Pratt, John E. Page, Wilford Woodruff and 
George A. Smith arrived in Philadelphia at 4 a. m., hav- 
ing traveled four hundred and thirty miles in forty-eight 
hours by stage, railroad and steamboat. A very severe 
storm of wind and rain raged in Philadelphia in the even- 
ing, doing immense damage. 

Sunday, 6*. — Meetiug at the stand. Elder Parley P. 
Pratt preached on testimony. 

When he closed, I told the people I would preach my 
sermon next Sunday, I was not able today; but I would 
now speak on another subject— viz., the election. 



526 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Ihe Prophet's Attitude on Politics. 

I am above the kingdoms of the world, for I have no laws. I am not 
come to tell you to vote this way, that way or the other. In relation to 
national matters, I want it to go abroad unto the whole world that 
every man should stand on his own merits. The Lord has not given 
me a revelation concerning politics. I have not asked Him for one. I 
am a third party, and stand independent and alone. I desire to see all 
parties protected in their rights. As for Mr. Walker, he is the Whig 
candidate, a high-minded man. He has not hung onto my coat tail to 
gain his election, as some have said. I am going to give a testi- 
mony, but not for electioneering purposes. Before Mr. Walker came 
to Nauvoo, rumor came up that he might become a candidate. Said 
I — He is an old friend, and I'll vote for him. When he came to my 
house, I voluntarily told him I should vote for him. When I made him 
acquainted with the ordinances of Nauvoo, in relation to writs of 
habeas corpus, he acted in accordance therewith on my testimony. 
The rascals (Reynolds and Wilson) took Walker's and Montgomery's 
security when I was arrested. Walker made Reynolds come to me 
and beg my pardon for the abuse he gave me; and through his means 
and influence the pistols were taken from the rascals. He (Walker) 
withdrew all claim to your vote and influence if it would be detrimental 
to your interests as a people. 

Brother Hyram tells me this morning that he has had a testimony to 
the effect it would be better for the people to vote for Hoge; and I 
never knew Hyrum to say he ever had a revelation and it failed. Let 
God speak and all men hold their peace. I never authorized Brother 
Law to tell my private feelings, and I utterly forbid these political 
demagogues from using my name henceforth and for ever. It is my 
settled opinion that if Governor Ford erred in granting a writ against 
me, it is an error of the head, and not of the heart; and I authorize all 
men to say I am a personal friend of Governor Ford. 

The cap to Parley's sermon is this— Every word that proceedeth 
from the mouth of Jehovah has such an influence over the human mind 
— the logical mind — that it is convincing without other testimony. 
Faith cometh by hearing If ten thousand men testify to a truth you 
know would it add to your faith? No. Or will ten thousand testi- 
monies destroy your knowledge of a fact? No. I don't want any one 
to tell I am a prophet, or attempt to prove my word. 

I prophesy in the name of God Almighty, they [the Saints] shall 
bear off the palm. 

Hyrum Smith explained at some length concerning the 
election. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 527 

Emma started to St. Louis to transact some business 
for me, it not being prudent for me to go to Missouri. 

Meeting oj the Twelve Apostles in Philadelphia. 

The quorum of the Twelve Apostles in Philadelphia held a meeting in 
the Canaanite Church. About three hundred Saints were present. Meet- 
ing was opened by Jedediah M. Grant, and President Brig-ham Young 
addressed the congregation at considerable length. He said that a man 
or woman may ask of God, and get a witness and testimony from God 
concerning any work or messenger that is sent uuto them; but if a 
person asks for a thing that does not concern him, such as governing 
the Church, as a member of the Church inquiring concerning the duty 
of a presiding Elder, what the prophet or the Twelve ought to do, &c. 
he will not get an snswer. It he does it will not be from God. He 
also remarked that if any in the Church had the fullness of the Melchise - 
dec Priesthood, he did not know it. For any person to have the full- 
ness of that priesthood, he must be a king and priest. A person may 
have a portion of that priesthood, the same as governors or judges of 
England have power from the king to transact business; but that does 
not make them kings of England. A person may be anointed king and 
priest long before he receives his kingdom. 

In the evening Elder Orson Pratt preached, and was followed by 
Elder George A. Smith. (Above from Wiljord Woodruff's Journal.) 

Monday, 7. — Election of Representatives to Congress 
and state and county officers, the Democratic ticket pre- 
vailing in Nauvoo by an overwhelming majority. 

Tuesday, 8, — The Twelve in Philadelphia went out on a 
pleasure excursion on the Delaware river, with about one 
hundred and fifty of the Saints. They went down to 
Glouster Point and spent the day in various innocent 
amusements. 

Wednesday, 0. — I rode out to my farm with a gentle- 
man. 

Thursday, 10. — Rode through the city with my brother 
Hyrum. 

OBITUARY. 

(From the limes and Seasons.) 

Friday, 11. It is with regret that we announce the death of our re- 
spected brother, General James Adams, of Springfield. He joined the 



528 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

Church some time ago in the above place, and had come to Nauvoo for 
the purpose of arranging matters preparatory to his removal to this 
place. He was attacked by the cholera morbus, and died on Friday 
night, the 11th instant. He has left an amiable family and a large 
circle of acquaintances, by whom he was greatly respected, to mourn 
his loss. Peace to his ashes! 

Saturday , 12. — Emma returned from St. Louis. I was 
sick at home. Robert D. Foster having on Monday last 
been elected school commissioner, and George W. 
Thatcher, clerk of county commissioner's court, they 
went to Carthage to give bonds and take oath of office. 
When before the court, Harmon T. Wilson, John Wilson, 
Franklin J. Morrill and Prentice, and twelve or fifteen 
others, came in armed with hickory clubs, knives, dirks 
and pistols, and told the court they must not approve the 
bonds [of the above officers elect] or swear them into 
office ; if they did blood would be spilt ; and pledged their 
word, honor and reputation, to keep them out of office 
and put down the Mormons. The bonds, however, were 
accepted, and the mob gave notice of a meeting of the 
anti-Mormons of Hancock county for Saturday next, to 
consider about the Mormons retaining their offices. 

Elder Willard Richards was sworn into office as recorder 
of the city of Nauvoo. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 5!29 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

THE PROPHET ON THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF JUDGE ELIAS 
HIGBEE — LIFE AND RESURRECTION — EXPLANATION OF 
ELECTION DAY TROUBLES — GOVERNOR FORD'S REFUSAL TO 
PLAY INTO THE HANDS OF MISSOURI — ANTI-MORMON AGI- 
TATION AT CARTHAGE — ELDER JONATHAN DUNHAM 's RE- 
PORT OF HIS WESTERN EXPLORATIONS. 

Sunday, August 13, 1843. — I went to the stand on Sunday 
morning, August 13, 1843, and preached on the death of 
Judge Higbee, a synopsis of which was reported by my 
clerk, Dr. Willard Richards. 

The Prophets Remarks at the Funeral of Judge Higbee. 

Brethren and Sisters, you will find these words in II Peter iii, 10, 
11:— 4l But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the 
which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements 
shall melt with fervent heat; the earth also and the works that are 
therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be 
dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversa- 
tion and godliness." 

I am not like other men. My mind is continually occupied with the 
business of the day, and I have to depend entirely upon the living God 
for every thing I say on such occasions as these. 

The great thing for us to know is to comprehend what God did insti- 
tute before the foundation of the world. Who knows it? It is the con- 
stitutional disposition of mankind to set up stakes and set bounds to the 
works and ways of the Almighty. 

We are called this morning to mourn the death of a just and good man 
—a great and mighty man. It is a solemn idea that man has no hope 
of seeing a friend after he has lost him. But I will give you a more 
painful thought. It is simple ; for I never design to communicate any 
ideas hut what are simple; for to this end I am sent. Suppose you 
have an idea of a resurrection, etc., etc., and yet know nothing at all 

34 Vol V. 



530 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D, 1843 

of the erospel, nor comprehend one principle of the order of heaven, 
but find yourselves disappointed— yes, at last find yourselves disap- 
pointed in every hope or anticipation, when the decision goes forth 
from the lips of the Almighty. Would not this be a greater disappoint- 
ment — a more painful thought than annihilation? 

Had I inspiration, revelation, and lungs to communicate what my 
soul has contemplated in times past, there is not a soul in this congre- 
gation but would go to their homes and shut their mouths in everlasting 
silence on religion till they had learned something. 

Why be so certain that you comprehend the things of God, when all 
things with you are so uncertain. You are welcome to all the knowl- 
edge and intelligence I can impart to you. I do not grudge the world 
all the religion they have got: they are welcome to all the knowledge 
they possess. 

The sound saluted my ears — "Ye are come unto Mount Zion, and unto 
the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable 
company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the first- 
born, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to 
the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the Mediator of the 
new covenant" (Hebrews xii, 22, 23, 24). What would it profit us to 
come unto the spirits of the just men, but to learn and come up to the 
standard of their knowledge? 

Where has Judge Higbee gone? 

Who is there that would not give all his goods to feed the poor, and 
pour out his gold and silver to the four winds, to go where Judge Hig- 
bee has gone? 

That which hath been hid from before the foundation of the world is 
revealed to babes and sucklings in the last days. 

The world is reserved unto burning in the last days. He shall send 
Elijah the prophet, and he shall reveal the covenants of the fathers in 
relation to the children, and the covenants of the children in relation* 
to the fathers. 

Four destroying angels holding power over the four quarters of the 
earth until the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads, which 
signifies sealing the blessing upon their heads, meaning the everlasting 
covenant, thereby making their calling and election sure. When a seal 
is put upon the father and mother, it secures their posterity, so that 
they cannot be lost, but will be saved by virtue of the covenant of their 
father and mother. 

To the mourners I would say — Do as the husband and the father 
would instruct you, and you shall be reunited. 

The speaker contined to teach the doctrine of election and the seal- 
ing powers and principles, and spoke of the' doctrine of election with 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 531 

the seed of Abraham, and the sealing of blessings upon his posterity, 
and the sealing of the fathers and children, according to the declara- 
tions of the prophets. He then spoke of Judge Higbee in the world of 
spirits, and the blessings which he would obtain, and of the kind spirit 
and disposition of Judge Higbee while living; none of which was re- 
ported. 

Remarks by President Joseph Smith, on Sunday after- 
noon, August 13, 1843, reported by Dr. Willard Richards: 

Ihe Prophet's Explanation of Election Day Iroitbles. 

President Joseph Smith complained of the citizens of Nauvoo. He 
reproved some young men for crowding on to the ladies 7 seats on the 
meeting ground, and laughing and mocking during meeting; and, as 
mayor, he instructed the marshal to keep that portion of the grove clear 
of young men. "The city is enlarging very fast. We haye many pro- 
fessedly learned men in this city, and the height of their knowledge is 
not to know enough to keep in their place." 

He then complained of the treatment he had received from Walter 
Bagby, the county assessor and collector, who has exercised more des- 
potic power over the inhabitants of the city than any despot of the 
eastern country over his serfs. I met him, and he gave me some abusive 
language, taking up a stone to throw at me: I seized him by the throat 
to choke him off. He then spoke of Esquire Daniel H. Wells interfer- 
ing when he had no business, and of the abuses he received at the elec- 
tion on the hill. They got a constable by the name of King. I don't 
know what need there was of a constable. Old Father Perry said, 
"Why, you can't vote in this precinct." 

King took me by the collar and told me to go away. (All our wrongs 
have arisen under the power and authority of Democracy; and I have 
t sworn that this arm shall fall from my shoulder, and this tongue cleave 
to the roof of my mouth, before I will vote for them,) unless they make 
me satisfaction, and I feel it sensibly. I was abused and neglected at 
the ground, and there was not a man in the crowd to say, "This is 
Brother Joseph, or this is the Mayor." He then spoke of the grog 
shops, and the disturbance of the crowd in the street by Moeser's groc- 
ery. I have been ferreting out grog shops, groceries, and beer barrels. 
I have warned .the rum and beer dealers to be scarce after this time, 
and the peace officers to watch the grog shops and give me seasonable 
notice of any disorder. If they are conducted as they have been, I will 
rip them up." 

He then sat down, but resumed — "I had forgotten one thing. We 
have had certain traders in this city, who have been writing falsehoods 



532 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |A.D. 1843 

to Missouri; and there is a certain man in this city who has made a 
covenant to betray and give me up to the Missourians, and that, too, 
before Governor Carlin commenced his persecutions. That man is no 
other than Sidney Rigdon. This testimony I have from gentlemen from 
abroad, whose names I do not wish to give. 

I most solemnly proclaim the withdrawal of my fellowship from this 
man, on condition that the foregoing be true; and let the Saints pro- 
claim it abroad, that he may no longer be acknowledged as my coun- 
selor: and all who feel to sanction my proceedings and views will mani- 
fest it by uplifted hands. 

There was a unanimous vote that Sidney Rigdon be disfellowshiped. 
and his license demanded. 

The Twelve Apostles held meetings in various parts 
of Philadelphia. 

Monday, 14. — Bode out at nine a. in. At home at one 
p. m. In the evening, attended the funeral of Lydia 
Walker, who died at my house yesterday. 

I copy from the State Register as follows: — 

A Post-Election Denial oj Governor Ford Menacing the Citizens oj 

Nauvoo. 

We have seen and heard a statement that Governor Ford had delayed 
making a decision upon the demand of Missouri for the militia to arrest 
Joseph Smith, until after the election, so as by intimidation to compel 
the Mormons to vote the Democratic ticket. 

The authors of this desperate and reckless slander take counsel from 
their own corrupt hearts, and judge others by a knowledge of what 
they would do in like case. No doubt but that they would do this, and 
more too, if necessary, to secure the success of their party; and hence 
their readiness to believe evil of others. 

If, however, they had been in the least degree inclined to judge cor- 
rectly, they would have gone, as we have done, to the records of the 
secretary's office, where they would have ascertained that all these sus- 
picions were groundless, and that the governor had actually decided 
not to call out the militia eleven days before the election. 

The following letters we copy from the records in the 
office of the secretary of state : — 

[Mentioned in the above article from the State Reg- 
ister.] 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 533 

Official Documents Proving that Governor Ford Decided not to Call out 
Militia to Arrest Joseph Smith Previous to Late Election. 

Executive Department, Springfield, 
Illinois, July 26, 1843. 

lo his Excellency, Thomas Reynolds, Governor of Missouri: — 

Sir,— The demand of Joseph H. Reynolds, Esq., the agent appointed 
by you to receive Joseph Smith, Jr., for a detachment of militia to as- 
sist in retaking said Smith, has been duly considered by me; and I 
now, at the earliest moment, after coming to a conclusion on the sub- 
ject, proceed to lay before you the result of my deliberations. 

The request for a military force is declined. The reasons which have 
influenced me in coming to this determination will be furnished to you 
at large, as soon as I can obtain leisure to do so. 
I have the honor to be, very respectfully 

Your obedient servant, 

Thomas Ford. 

Executive Department, Springfield, 
Illinois, August 14, 1843. 

To his Excellency, Thomas Reynolds, Governor oj the State of Missouri: 

Sir, — On the 26th day of July last, I had the honor to inform you by 
letter that, after full consideration, I had come to the conclusion to de- 
cline ordering out a detachment of the militia to assist in retaking Jos- 
eph Smith, Jr., who was said to have escaped from the custody of the 
Missouri ascent; and in that letter I engaged to furnish you with my 
reasons at large for coming to that determination. 

It appears that an indictment was found, at a special term of the 
Daviess Circuit Court, Missouri, held on the 5th day of June last, against 
Smith for treason. Upon this indictment, the governor of Missouri 
issued a requisition to the governor of this state, demanding the arrest 
and delivery of Smith. A writ was thereupon duly issued by me for 
the apprehension and delivery of Smith as demanded. This writ was 
put into the hands of an officer of this state to be executed. The officer 
to whom it was directed immediately arrested Smith, and delivered him 
to Joseph H. Reynolds, the agent of Missouri, appointed to receive him. 
The writ has been returned to me as having been fully executed. 

After Smith was delivered into the hands of Mr. Joseph H, Reynolds, 
it is alleged that he was rescued from his custody by the Municipal 
Court of the city of Nauvoo. 

Affidavits on both sides of the question have been filed before me, 
and I also have additional information on the subject contained in a re- 
port of Mr. Brayman, Esq., a special agent appointed by myself to in- 
vestigate and collect facts in relation to the whole matter. 



534 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. |A.D. 1843 

The undisputed facts of the case are, that Smith was arrested near 
Dixon, in Lee county. He was immediately delivered over to Mr. Rey- 
nolds. Smith immediately brought an action against Mr. Reynolds for 
false imprisonment, and held him to bail in the sum of $400. Mr. Rey- 
nolds being in a strange country and unable to give bail, was taken into 
custody by the sheriff of Lee county and held as a prisoner, whilst Rey- 
nolds held Smith as his prisoner. 

The parties finally concluded to get out writ of habeas corpus, and 
try the legality of the imprisonment in each case. The writs were ac- 
cordingly issued, returnable before the nearest judicial tribunal in the 
circuit in which Quincy is situated; and thereupon all parties proceeded 
in the direction of Quincy, Smith being in the custody of Reynolds, and 
Reynolds himself in the custody of the sheriff of Lee county. 

On the road, during their progress, they were met by parties of the 
citizens of Nauvoo, some or most of whom are said to have been memb- 
ers of the Nauvoo Legion, though there is no evidence that they ap- 
peared in a military capacity. There was no exhibition of arms of any 
description, nor was there any military or warlike array, nor was there 
any actual force used, though Mr. Reynolds testifies that he felt under 
constraint, and that Smith, soon after meeting the first parties of Mor- 
mons, enlarged himself from his custody. 

Mr. Reynolds also testifies (and there can be no doubt of the fact) 
that he was taken to Nauvoo against his will. 

But whether he was taken there by the command of Smith and his 
friends, or by the voluntary act of the sheriff of Lee county, who had 
him in custody, does not appear by any testimony furnished by Mr. 
Reynolds. The affidavit of the sheriff has not been obtained, though 
there is an evidence on the other side to show that the sheriff of Lee 
county voluntarily carried Mr. Reynolds to the city of Nauvoo, without 
any coercion on the part of any one. 

After arriving at Nauvoo, a writ of habeas corpus was issued by the 
Municipal Court of that city, and Mr. Reynolds was compelled by the 
authority of the court to produce Mr. Smith before that tribunal. After 
hearing the case, the court discharged Smith from arrest. 

There is much other evidence submitted; but the foregoing is the 
material part of it to be considered on the present occasion. 

Now, sir, I might safely rest my refusal to order a detachment of mi- 
litia to assist in retaking Smith upon the ground that the laws of this 
state have been fully exercised in the matter. A writ has been issued 
for his apprehension. Smith was apprehended and was duly delivered 
by the officer of this state to the agent of the state of Missouri appointed 
to receive him. No process, officer, or authority of this state has been 
resisted or interfered with. I have fully executed the duty which the 



a.D.1843] HISTORY OF TEE CHURCH. 535 

laws impose on me, and have not been resisted either in the writ issued 
for the arrest of Smith or in the person of the officer appointed to ap- 
prehend him. If there has been any resistance to any one, it has been 
to the officer of Missouri, after Smith came to his custody; and every- 
thing had been done on my part which the law warranted me in doing. 
Another objection to ordering a detachment of militia, arises out of 
the militia laws of this state, the forty-third section of which is as fol- 
lows : — 

"Whenever it may be necessary to call into actual service any part 
of the militia of this state, ou a requisition by the executive of the 
United States, on an actual or threatened invasion of this state, or any 
of the neighboring states or territories of the United States, the com- 
mander-in-chief shall forthwith demand from each division a detach- 
ment in proportion to the strength thereof, except as hereinafter ex- 
cepted, which order shall be delivered by a special messenger to the 
several commandants of divisions, specifying the number demanded 
from each division, the time and place of rendezvous, if ordered to 
march; and if the same be detached under any particular act of the 
United States, to endorse the same on such order: Provided that when- 
ever the safety of any of the frontier settlements in this state shall, in 
the opinion of the governor, require it, he may exempt the militia in 
such settlements from being called into service, and make such further 
provision for the defense as the necessity of the case may require ; 
which exemption shall be expressed in his orders to commandants of 
the . divisions, who, together with the commandants of brigades, regi- 
ments, battalions, and companies, shall govern themselves accordingly. 
And provided, also, that such militia niea may be required to serve as 
spies on their own frontiers; and that, on actual invasion or any extreme 
emergency, the commander-in-chief, commandants of divisions, brigades, 
battalions, and companies, may call on the whole or any part of the 
militia under their respective commands, as the nature of the case may 
require; who shall continue in service, if necessary, until the militia 
can be regularly called out." 

The governor has no other authority, in calling out the militia, than 
that which is contained in this section; by which it appears that there 
must be either a requisition from the president, an actual or threatened 
invasion, or some extreme emergency, to warrant the governor in exer- 
cising this power. No one of these contingencies has arisen. There 
has been no requisition from the president; there has been no actual or 
threatened invasion of the state; nor is this such an extreme emergency 
as is contemplated by the law. 

If we allow that force was exhibited and threatened to compel your 
agent to carry his prisoner before the municipal court of Nauvoo, that 



536 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

the court there took cognizance of the cause without jurisdiction and 
against the consent of your agent, it would amount at most to a riot; 
and to a resistance of authority in a single case, and that, too, under 
color of law and legal process. To constitute an extreme emergency, 
so as to justify a call for the militia, there ought, in my opinion, to be 
something more than a mere illegal act — something more than a design 
to resist the law in a single instance. The design ought to be general, 
as in treason, rebellion, or insurrection; in which cases a universality 
of design is essential to constitute the offense. 

If a person resist a constable or sheriff, or other officer charged with 
the execution of process, with an intention to resist the law in that par- 
ticular instance, such an act is a misdemeanor at most, is indictable 
as such, and may be met by the posse comitatus. But something more 
than a mere misdemeanor must have been contemplated by the law. 
It would seem to me that it could never have been intended that the 
governor should call out the militia in every case, where a constable or 
sheriff may be resisted; and even in a case of a riotous resistance it 
would not be an extreme emergency without some military array, some 
warlike show, or some threatened resistance to the government itself. 

In this case, there has been no warlike array in the proceedings of 
Smith and his friends, no exhibition of arms, and no actual force of an 
illegal character. Mr. Reynolds was not subjected to illegal imprison- 
ment. He was arrested on lawful process; and although that process 
may have been wrongfully obtained, yet his arrest was not riotous or 
unlawful, but according to the forms of law. Mr. Reynolds continued 
in the custody of the sheriff, by virtue of that process, until he was 
taken to Nauvoo; and- although he was taken to that city against his 
will, and was by that means compelled to take his prisoner there, yet 
was he taken by lawful process, by an authorized officer who acted, so 
far as I have any evidence, freely and voluntarily, in so doing. In no 
one aspect of the case can I consider the present an extreme emergency, 
warranting a call for the militia according to the provisions of law in 
this state. 

Thus, sir, I have stated to vou the principal reasons which have in- 
fluenced me in refusing to order a call of the militia. To my mind they 
are entirely satisfactory, and I hope they will meet with the approval 
of your Excellency and the citizens of Missouri. 
I have the honor to be 
Your Excellency's most obedient servant, 

Thomas Ford. 

s 

Tuesday, 15. — Went in the evening to see Mr. La Forest 
exhibit feats of strength. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 537 

Wednesday, 16. — At ten a. in., attended the funeral 
of General James Adams, who was buried with Masonic 
honors. 

I sent Sidney Eigdon's affidavit to Governor Ford. 

Thursday, 17. — I held mayor's court through the day, 
and tried several suits. 

Elders Parley P. Pratt and Orson Hyde started from 
Nauvoo for Boston, via Chicago. 

Elder J. M. Grant wrote me a letter reporting the 
church in Philadelphia to be in a prosperous condition. 

Friday, 18. — Conversed with Mr. Swartout, of Quincy, 
and bought from him thirteen quarter- sections of land. 
Visited the lumber yard. 

Elders Young and Kimball visited Mount Holly, New 
Jersey. 

Saturday, 19. — "Great Meeting of Anti-Mormons!" At 
a public meeting of the citizens of Hancock county, 
without distinction of party, held at the Court House in 
Carthage, in pursuance of previous notice, on Saturday, 
the 19th of August, A. D. 1843. 

Anti-Mormon Meeting at Carthage. 

Major Reuben Graves was called to the chair, and William D. 
Abernethy appointed secretary. The object of the meeting was then 
stated by Valentine Wilson in an animated address. The meeting was 
afterwards addressed by Walter Bagby and also by Hiram Boyle, of 
Adams county. 

On motion of F. J. Bartlett, a committee of nine was appointed by 
the chair to draft and report resolutions for the action of the meeting. 

F. J. Bartlett, Walter Bagby, Valentine Wilson, G. M. Swope, R. 
T. Madison, J. A. Beebe, John Wilson, Henry Hunter, and John Cam- 
eron were appointed that committee. 

After a short absence the committee submitted the following: 

REPORT. 

Your committee respectfully requests to be excused from making a 
formal report at this time, owing to the short time allowed them and 
the importance of the business that has called us together, aud ask to 
be discharged from further duties and recommend that a committee of 
six be appointed to draft resolutions and make a report to an adjourned 
meeting. 



538 HISTOKY OF THE CHUKCH. [A.D. 1843 

Whereupon the following gentlemen were appointed to compose that 
committee, — viz.: 

Walter Bagby, F. J. Bartlett, Stephen Owen, Stephen H. Tyler, 
Valentine Wilson and Joel Weston. 

The meeting then adjourned to meet again at this place on the 6th of 
September next, at one o'clock p. m. 

Reuben Graves, Chairman. 
W. D. Abernethy, Secretary. 

Sunday. 20. — I was at home all day. My brother 
Hyrum preached at the stand, and Sidney Eigdon read a 
copy of a letter to show the people that he was not guilty 
of treachery. 

Monday 21. — I received a letter from Mr. Patrick, 
covering one from Mr. J. Hall, of Independence, Missouri, 
breathing hard things against us as a people. I gave 
instructions to have them copied with some additional 
remarks, and sent to Governor Ford. The following is a 
copy of the letter, with the comments of the Neighbor 
thereon. 

Letter of J. Hall, Missouri, on the Recent Arrest and Irial of the 

Prophet. 

Independence, Mo., July 23, 1843. 

My Dear Old Friend: — Your letter dated on the 12th, and mailed 
on the 14th instant, is just at hand ; and not being able to answer your 
questions correctly or advise you iudicially, in relation to the Rockwell 
case until after I see him and some other of my friends, I will postpone 
that part of this letter until tomorrow, and in the meantime will say 
such things as I can write about without much reflection. 

Sheriff Reynolds , upon his retu rn gave me his com pliments fr om you 
and for the first time I learned that you resided in Illinois. He also 
gave~lTlia~rrative of hisa^venTuresln your state, which was anything 
but favorable, either to the reputation of_your- people or .yourself, as a 

J&w__abiding peo ple o r a profoiind^or honest lawyer. Certainly there 

can be but IfftkTvirtue in the community, and little honesty in the 
officers or the law, who will trample upon the forms of justice, the laws 
of the country and bid open defience to both in the manner that Sher- 
iff Reynolds informs us that you acted with him, after his arrest of the 
Mormon Prophet. That the state courts have a right upon a writ of 
habeas corpus to investigate the legality of all imprisonment within 



A.D. 1843] HISTOID OF THE CHURCH. 539 

their respective chartered limits, whether such imprisonment is by the 
authority of the United States or of a state, no sound lawyer, perhaps, 
will doubt; but it is equally certain that no court upon such a writ has 
any right to go beyond the forms and the prima facia evidence of the 
ease. If the officers of courts and the community are so corrupt as to 
disregard their own laws and trample them under their feet, and liber- 
ate their criminals in defiance of law, then it appears to me that the 
power of self government is extinct; if Illinois by her own authority, 
cannot capture the prophet, it will be but a small matter to raise volun- 
teers enough here to raze the city of Nauvoo to the ground; if Illinois 
fails to deliver up Jo Smith, there will be something serious between 
the two states. Missouri will have Jo Smith for trial or impose as pow- 
erful restrictions as the Constitution will allow upon the intercourse of 
the citizens of Illinois in Missouri. If the governor of Illinois is so 
imbecile as to allow his warrant to be disregarded by the Mormons, and 
permit the Prophet to go at large, then let him be impeached, and a 
new, honorable, energetic man be placed in his stead. I have it from 
a high source that Missouri will hold the whole state responsible for the 
treatment of our messenger, and for the delivery of the Prophet. Had 
you liberated the Prophet by a regular writ of habeas corpus without 
mistreating our Reynolds, I should have gloried in my acquaintance 
with you; but to have done it in the manner it was done reflects no 
honor either on yourself, your people, or your government. The Mor- 
mons are only a lawless banditti, and I fear the pestilence has contami- 
nated the whole community; and if Reynolds' opinion be correct, your- 
self among the rest, Holy Jo was not afraid of the * 'injustice of our 
people;" it is t he just punishment and their violated laws that he 
fears. 

I will now give you an impartial opinion of the prejudic eg^again&t, 
Roc kwell herejjind my opinio n of his guilt. There is not a man in 
this community but Relieves him guiHy^ There isa^chain-of circum- 
starrtJeTagainst him s^TstrorFg^raiS^Be^^ guilt. '' 

I was at Bogg's' house~fw7Trnmutes afte r the de ed; itis-in-sigbt-of mine; 
and the incidiousness of the offense reruns Jt ; diffic^^ 
citizens from hj^igin&him up_ without judge or jury^ SofarT how- 
ever, we have succeeded in quelling it; but should he be discharged 
upon trial, the power of man cannot save him. (More tomorrow.) 

J. Hall. 

Editorial Comments of the "Nauvoo Neighbor" on the Foregoing Letter.* 

The foregoing letter was sent from J. Hall, of Independence, Missouri, 
to a respectable lawyer of Dixon, Illinois, and by him with an explana- 
* The editorial is by John Taylor. 



540 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

tory letter enclosed and forwarded to General Smith of this city; 
and after retaining copies, it was thought advisable to forward 
both the originals to Governor Ford for his consideration. Bv this pro- 
ceeding it is not to be understood that the citizens of Nauvoo fear that 
"volunteers from Missouri will raze Nauvoo to the ground. 1 '' There is too 
much honor and patriotism in Illinois to allow such a barbarous and 
disgraceful transaction; but it was done to apprize his Excellency of the 
mode and manner of doing business in cases of emergency in Missouri, 
and to show his Excellency how much responsibility he and the state 
were under in case the Prophet should not be delivered up on the requi- 
sition of Missouri, where, according to the nicest calculations of the 
famous lawyer Hall, taking Rockwell's case for a sample, if he were 
discharged upon his trial, "the power of man could not save him!" 

As to the non-intercourse, or "restrictions" which Missouri may 
assume or inflict over the citizens of Illinois, we have nothing to say. 
The Latter-day Saints have seen Boggs' signature to such a bill as that 
and many know the penalty. 

There is little need of comment on Mr. Hall's famous letter; for to us it 
seems to be of itself a comment that makes honesty, virtue and common 
sense blush, and law, liberty and republicism shudder! We appeal to the 
liberal-minded and proud-hearted Americans, whether such a spot upon 
the withering character of Missouri could be removed, any more than 
an African could be washed white, or a wolf be possessed of the inno- 
cence of a lamb, unless the Lord interfered. 

Talk of justice in Missouri! You might as well make a burning lime- 
kiln or coal-pit an ice-house or hospital! The ice would melt and 
the sick would suffocate, the power of man could not save them! No 
wonder a negro could be burned alive in Missouri! No wonder a crim" 
inal could be taken out of jail and murdered while the sheriff held a 
respite in his hand, in Missouri; and no wonder that a Mormon will not 
risk his life in Missouri; the p>ower of man could not save him, even if 
discharged by what is styled a court of justice. 

To glance at the whole without recurring to the many crimes of the 
people of the state, officially or unofficially, whether it be feeding pris- 
oners on human flesh, or taking them out of jail and lynching them 
without mercy, to help justice beforehand, or whether it be Boggs' 
exterminating order or even the present hint at restriction and assump- 
tion of responsibility, we are apt to believe that the good sense and 
virtue of the citizens of Illinois in general and the Mormons especially 
like the old experienced rat luill shun Missouri as a whitened heap under 
which there is mischief concealed. 

Rode out with Mr. Moore. In the afternoon held may- 



A.D. 1843] HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. 541 

or's court, and tried Frederick J. Moeser for breach of 
temperance ordinance. Fined him $3 and costs. 

Mary Ann Young, daughter of Elder Brigham Young, 
died, aged six years and eigth months, of dropsy around 
the heart. 

Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and George 
A. Smith arrived in New York. 

Tuesday, 22. — Held mayor's court, and fined Stephen 
Wilkinson for selling spirits without a license. 

We constantly hear rumors that the people of Carthage 
are determined to raise a mob to drive the Mormons out 
of the state. 

My brother Hyrum has gone to Plymouth. 

Wednesday, 23. — I attended mayor's court and tried 
several suits. 

Sent George J. Adams to Augusta to procure some 
articles for the temple. 

Elders Orson Pratt and Wilford Woodruff arrived in 
New York, accompanied by Elders Jedediah M. Grant and 
James Sloan. 

Thursday, 24. — Engaged in land business, selling and 
making titles of land and settling with several indi- 
viduals. , 

Friday, 25. — My brother Hyrum in the office, conversing / 
with me about the new revelation upon celestial marriage. 

Rain in gentle showers through the day, being the first 
of any amount that lias fallen in Nauvoo since the 1st of 
June. The earth has been exceedingly dry, and the early 
potatoes nearly destroyed. Corn has been stunted in its 
growth and even vines much injured by the drouth. 

Saturday, 26. — Six hundred houses destroyed by fire in 
Kingston, Jamaica: estimated damage, $1,500,000. 

The U. S. steam frigate Missouri destroyed by fire. 

Elder Jonathan Dunham returned from his exploring 
excursion west. The following is extracted from his 
journal: 



542 HISTORY OF THE CHUECH. TA.D. 1843 

Extracts from Journal of Elder Jonathan Dunham while Engaged on an 
Exploration in the Western Country * 

Saturday, July 16, 1843. — Stayed all day at Zarahemla; all night at 
Mr. Hawley's. 

Sunday, 17.— Miss Daniels finished my tent, &o. Left Hawley's at 
twelve o'clock, went fifteen miles and camped for the night. In the 
morning our horses were gone; we hunted for them some time before 
we found them. 

18th July. — Left the camp at seven o'clock; traveled all day; came 
within sixteen miles of the agency. Camped on the prairie. 

Ttiesday, 19. — Left the camp at six o'clock; passed the agent's house, 
half- past twelve. Came to Sugar Grove creek; stopped, rested our 
horses, took dinner, &c, at two o'clock p. m.; stopped at darken Mes- 
quito creek, and stayed all night. 

Wednesday, 20. — Started at six o'clock; traveled thirty miles; fell in 
with the Sac Indians, who had been to the old Sac village after corn. 
At night they got drunk and fought. We encamped at dark, and stayed 
all night in the timber, on a bluff bank of the Des Moines river. 

Started late in the morning of Thursday, 21st. We traveled until 
twelve o'clock: stopped in the round flat of the Des Moines river (here 
another drunken Indian frolic which lasted all the afternoon); left the 
ground athalf-past two p. m. and went thirteen miles; came within twenty 
miles of the garrison troops, or Sac settlement, and encamped on the 
edge of the prairie. 

Friday, 22nd July .—Left for the Sac village; at noon we got parted 
from each other, and the Indians got drunk and quarreled; and Captain 
Joe would not go any further. He lay down, was mad, and I could not 
get him to go. So I left him and went towards the Sac village. 
Stayed all night at the trading house. 

Saturday morning, 23rd July. — Came to the Sac village, and waited 
for I Japtain Joe to arrive with his party. 

Sunday, 24. — Stayed at the Sac waiting for my pilot, who was sick 
and lame in one knee, so that he could not travel. 

Monday, 25. — This morning at Wapamuneto's; stayed until noon of 
Tuesday, 26th; then Neotanah, my guide came, and we started on im- 
mediately for Missouri; stayed ou the prairie all night. 

Wednesday, 27. — Traveled until noon; baited our horses; no water; 
we had nothing to eat; continued our journey; it rained all the after- 
noon; stayed all the night in the prairie; lay in the wet grass. 

Thursday, 28. — Started on our journey this morning early. Saw in 

See this volume, page 509. 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 543 

the forenoon a herd of elk. The Indian went up the hollow to shoot 
one, while I held the horses out of sight of the elk. He crawled in the 
grass some fifty or sixty rods, and snapped four times at them when 
they were lying down; he could not get his gun off. The elk ran off a rifle 
shot and looked at him. He broke his gun to pieces on the ground and 
threw it away down the hill, and came back to mt swearing mad. Went 
on until three o'clock, then baited our horses and prepared for a shower 
that was apparently nigh at hand. We went until sundown, then 
pitched our tents in the grass; and such rain and thunder and lightning 
I never before witnessed. Lay all night in the rain. Our tent blew 
over. 

Friday, 29th July. — We dried our things by the fire, and then went 
on about twenty-five miles; came to a village of the Pottawatamies 
about sunset; found nobody at home; went into the house of my guide; 
his wife was dead, and his son and wife gone to the north on a buffalo 
hunt. We made a fire, and got something to eat. Late in the night 
there came four Indians and one old squaw; they brought some jerked 
venison and some half-boiled corn. 

Saturday morning, 30th July. — We were sent for to the chief's house. 
We went. The Indians, squaws and children came from every quarter 
to see the man that had come with Neotanah. Breakfast was ready for us 
as soon as we came in. This was the first time that I ever ate at a 
wigwam amongst little and great, when the vituals relished as it did at 
this time; but this is easily accounted for: hunger will make anything 
that is eatable taste good. Stayed all day at the chief's house. 
My rifle seemed to be the great wonder amongst all Indians and 
squaws; it went the rounds, from one to another, as if it had been one 
of the seven wonders of the world. This Indian town stands on the 
creek called the Pottawatamie Tour-se-pas. This creek is from three 
to eight rods wide, is deep, and often flows its banks. Its length is 
sixty miles and it enters into the Missouri river, thirty miles from Pot- 
tawatamie town. 

Sunday, 31. — Nothing this day transpired worth mentioning. About 
three o'clock p. in. a delegate from the Pottwatamie tribe returned 
from Iowa river, where he met in council with two of the Sioux and one 
Winnebago. He said the distance from the Pottawatamies to Galena 
is five hundred miles. 

Monday, 1st August, 1843. — This day I spent in looking up the 
creek for a mill seat, and found one and two beds of iron ore. 

luesday, 2. — This morning the chief of the warriors brought me two 
cat fish, and left them in the wik-a-up where I stayed. I cooked half of 
one of them, and it eat very good. The Indians all are very kind to 
me, more so than I could expect. This tribe is somewhat scattered, 



544 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

through the timber up and down the creek; but the main village or 
town stands on an eminence that overlooks the whole of the rest of the 
Indian habitations. It appears to be a healthy habitation. The water 
is good and the climate wholesome. Some considerable timber, though 
no very great sawing timber, except bass wood, black walnut, some 
cottonwood. This tribe have been here for six years from Rock 
river. 

The Pottawatamies this side of the Missouri river, they say, will 
number 2,000 men, women and children. Thirty-four miles from the 
Pottawatamie town to the Council Bluffs, 200 miles south lies Fort- 
Leavenworth; and about the same distance southeast lies Far West. 
One hundred miles uorth is a buffalo country, where the Pottawata- 
mies hunt and catch buffalo. 

Wednesday, August 3. — Council met at two o'clock. They own five 
millions of acres of land. Last annuities, the number was 1,552 souls. 
Council arose at sunset, when the decision was made that Neotanah should 
conduct me back again to the agency in Iowa, on the nearest and most 
convenient route. The head chief was to conduct me home; but in coun- 
cil a messenger arrived and brought news that the superintendent of 
the annuities had arrived at the garrison, Leavenworth, and the middle 
of August he would visit the chiefs at Council Bluffs to pay them their 
money. He said he was very sorry that he could not conduct me to Nau- 
voo; he wanted to see the place and the people. The interpreter ap- 
peared very friendly indeed, and regretted much that he could not go 
wi*h me home; but said he would visit Nauvoo in the spring, as early 
as the weather and streams of water would permit. 

Thursday, 4. — This moruing I discovered a little dissatisfaction in 
some, which began to cause a division, that the same Indian that con- 
ducted me to their nation should conduct me back again. 

The Pawnees on the head of the Big Platte, 150 miles from Council 
Bluffs. 

About the 7th of July, (1843) the Sacs, 600 men, came against the 
Pawnees, 160. They fought from daylight until noon, killed sixty 
Sioux and about sixty-two of the Pawnees. The missionary went upon 
the bluff and saw the battle. They offered no abuse to the whites. 

Friday, 5. — Nothing of note passed. 

Saturday, 6. — This day I took dinner with a friend, who had just 
come from the buffalo hunt. His daughter cooked a johnny cake and 
got some tea; had sugar a plenty, and buffalo meat. This, for the first 
time that I had seen any coru meal, was pounded iu a mortar, and tne 
finest sorted out and baked; but the manner in which it was wet up 
and shortened was a caution to the hogs. But this all passed over very 
well. I have no reason to complain, for they did the best they knew 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 545 

how. Severe hunger made all things relish well that was eatable for 
dogs. 

Sunday, 7. — Went down the creek to make some arrangements about 
returning home. Saw some new Indians, and had to go and dine with 
them; then, after dinner, went up town and stayed all night 

Monday, 8. — Went about eight or ten miles after wild honey; found 
two trees, got the honey, and returned home by dark the same dav. 

luesday, 9. — This morning had breakfast of honey, and buffalo meat 
dried and smoked; then, in about one hour and a half, boiled corn and 
elk bone broth was served up. This was a great dish amongst the 
Lamanites; but not so good a dish for me as I have seen in past days 
in my own land and amongst my own people. 

On the 8th instant a great feast was held at the Black Chief's, called 
the buffalo feast, or after the buffalo hunt was over; and all returned 
in safety and all their labors crowned with success. An address was 
delivered by a subordinate speaker because the chief was very ill. This 
address or sermon was lengthy and delivered in great oratorical style. 
At the end of the last sentence the congregation responded a loud 
amen; then they commenced eating as the feast was prepared al- 
ready. After the feast the singers commenced to sing, and sang three 
songs, the dances commenced at a loud whoop from the war chief. 
After dancing was passed off the priest offered up a prayer to the 
Great Spirit for giving them good hunting. The congregation then dis- 
persed. 

Wednesday, 10. — Another feast was prepared for the lower town, 
who were absent at the first feast. This last feast held all night, or the 
dance continued all night. 

Thursday, 11. — I went to the lower town and visited them: they also 
were very friendly. The town is situated on the east bank of the river, 
about three miles below the middle town, and the middle town about 
one mile below the upper town. The head chief lives in the middle 
town and one chief in each of the other towns. 

Friday, 12. — All was still and quiet, nothing going on worthy of 
notice; all busy about their employment. The old men were lying 
on their couches and smoking their pipes; the old women were making 
sacks in which to gather their corn and beans and potatoes: the young 
women were making mats to sleep on and weaving wampum belts for 
the warriors; the young men were constantly riding from town to 
town visiting and playing cards and gambling continually after the re- 
turn from their buffalo hunt, which lasted fourteen days. 

When a hunter rides out for elk or deer, and returns with the 
spoils, he rides to the door of his wigwam, where he finds his wife sit- 
ting at work, and a kettle of corn and beans and a little buffalo meat 

35 Vol. v. 



546 HISTORY 0* THE CHURCH. fA. D. 1843 

or bones broken, or elk meat, all ready for him. If not quite done, she 
steps to the next door and returns with his wooden bowl and ladle full. 
The Indian throws off at the door his meat in a great hurry, unharnesses 
his horse, lies down on some skins or blankets and eats his food pre- 
pared for him, enough for four white men. 

The meat is left in charge with the squaw.* He has no more care of 
it. He has done his part in getting the meat and bringing: it to his 
house. The squaws then prepare and dry or smoke the meat. This 
they call jerking the meat, so that it will not spoil. Meat prepared this 
way is dried in the blood, and will keep year after year if not eaten 
before. Nothing of notice occurred through the day. 

I spent the forenoon in the town. In the afternoon I went to see the 
Indian who was appointed by the council to conduct me home. He was 
gone to the lower town on a drunken frolic. I stayed until he came 
home, which was a little before sunset. I then returned to my place of 
lodging. Soon after I had got to bed or laid down upon my blanket, I 
heard the beating of a drum. An Indian came in, or came to the door 
and said that we must all attend the feast or dance. At an instant 
each one caught a bowl and ladle, and ran for the place of gather- 
ing. I went with the crowd, though not equipped. I had no bowl or 
ladle, but was made welcome as though I was an Indian with the rest. 
A place was prepared for me to sit or lie down as I chose; and as they 
all lay down, I laid down with the rest, between two large warriors, 
who soon commenced smoking their pipes. The music was continually 
playing. After smoking was past, the war chief began to dance, and 
was followed by his braves with a hideous yell as each fell into the 
dance. They passed around the room three or four times, and then they 
were "joined by the squaws. They all and each one performed their 
parts well that was assigned them, from the least to the greatest; and 
I thiuk better time kept by those that danced I never saw before. All 
was solemn and silent as though they were going to be burnt at the 
stake, — except, when the chief gave the whoop, they all answered with 
a yell that would reach the very heavens. This dance continued about 
one hour while the supper was preparing. They then all took supper; 
and after supper, commenced dancing again as usual. This perform- 
ance lasted until about three o'clock in the morning when all went 
quietly to their homes. 

The next morning, the chief sent for me to take breakfast with him. 
I immediately went. The two little girls were cooking, frying flour 
pancakes. The chief's wife was busily engaged attending: on her sick 
child in a small booth built for that purpose out at the door. These 
cakes above mentioned, fried by those little girls, were just scorched 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 547 

a little on either side, and the middle was dough. As it was those 
cakes and sweetened water was a good breakfast. 

Saturday morning, 13. — This morning the chief told me that in conse- 
quence of being used in the manner I was, in coming to visit them, 
they had come to the conclusion that they would not let the same Indian 
go back with me that came with me, and that they had selected in 
the first council, but after more investigation, they concluded to make 
a new selection of men that would be more respectable and could do 
honor to their nation, and have authority to act for the tribe; and it 
would be satisfactory to the whole nation, as the nation was much dis- 
pleased with the conduct of Neotanah, and in council gave him a severe 
flogging, and said that he was not fit to go anywhere amongst the 
whites. They seemed to express much regret and feeling of sorrow 
that I had received such treatment from one that pretended to be a 
friend and an honorable man of the Pottawatomies, for they consider 
themselves honorable men. 

While I now write, I have se xr en of the most honorable in the tribe 
around me — the head chief and his counselors. One of them is aged, 
his head is silvered o'er with age; while in his prime none could endure 
more fatigue, none whose constitution was stronger than his; but now 
he says, he is soon to go and shake hands with the great Shaminyto 
(that is, God) that had made him, and had given him strength to hunt, 
and in war to fight his enemies. Here the old man would 
show the wounds received in battle, in fighting for his nation, 
his wife and little ones. He said he had never fought but on the de- 
fensive. Ninety-eight years, as near as he can remember, he has seen; 
and now, he says, he wants to know how the Mormons worship the 
great Shaminyto different from what he did; if the best way, he wanted 
to get into it before he went on his journey to see the great Sham- 
inyto. 

Sunday, 14. — There is no day known amongst these Indians. Every 
day is alike* unto them. They have no day of the month, neither day 
of the week. All things move on one day after another. They count 
their months by moons, and twelve moons make a year. They can tell 
how many years they have lived in the west, and most of them can tell 
how old they are, &c. 

Monday, 15. — This morning the Indians arrived from Missouri, and 
brought an interpreter, and one to go to the East or to the Mississ- 
ippi, to conduct me home and to see the big chief. Council is to sit at 
nine o'clock this morning; but in consequence of the head chief's child 
to be buried this morning,council will be called immediately after din- 
ner. The afternoon was spent in business matters, writing, preparing 
for the journey to Nauvoo. 



548 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. A.D. 1843 

Tuesday, 16. — This morning I went to see a squaw that was bitten 
last night by a rattlesnake twice upon the top of her left foot. She was 
in great pain all night, her foot and leg very much swollen. In the 
afternoon the Indians all met for worship and to prepare for drawing 
the blankets and money. They were as merry as bees in a hive, old 
and young, from the grey head to the suckling on a board. They had 
their meeting until one o'clock in the morning. Danced and prayed 
and preached some. 

Wednesday, 17. — They commenced again the worship about sunrise, 
dressed in the richest and best style possible, except some few who were 
employed iu cooking for the rest. Here I will notice that the most 
profound silence and good order that I ever saw in any congregation 
whatever, small or great, was observed. All that is wanting to make 
them the happiest people in the world is the Gospel, a perfect knowl- 
edge of it, and to feel its power. Their sectarian creeds and ceremon- 
ies would go to the moles and b.ats soon. Although they labor with 
as much energy of body and mind, and have as much zeal as the shak- 
ing Quakers, yet it is heathen worship, like all other sectarian societies. 
Their idea of the Supreme Being is much more consistent than many of 
the holy enlightened sectarians; for the Indians believe in the Great 
Shaminyto as having body and parts like uuto a man. 

Thursday, IS. — This morning, we started for Nauvoo. A long and 
tedious journey to perform lay before us. We had no compass to steer 
our course by: the sun rising in the morning was our principal guide. 
Our course was due east. This course we intended to follow as near 
as we could. 

The place we left, Belle Vue, or Mosquito Creek, is in the same lati- 
tude as Nauvoo. Therefore on our return, our course must be east; 
and this direction we followed until we came to the Keosoqua, on the 
Des Moines river. We. traveled fifteen miles unto another Indian vil- 
lage, stayed all night; and in the morning a council was called, and we 
stayed all day. 

Friday,- 19. — At the village we got some provisions cooked, and the 
chief's brother was sent as a delegate from, the band. Our company 
now consisted of four Indians, one squaw, one interpreter, and myself, 
seven in number. The interpreter was a white man, half English and 
half French, formerly from Canada; and since the last war has lived 
with the Pottawatamies; married a squaw, sister to the chief where we 
now are. We came to the conclusion to stay all day on Friday, be- 
cause two of our horses went back to where we first started. 

Saturday, 20th of August. — Left the village at ten o'clock. Trav- 
eled all day until dark. Encamped on the battle-ground where the 
Sioux and Pottawattamies and sixteen of the Oneidas fought. I took up 



A.D. 1843J HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 549 

one of their blankets to ride on. We started this morning as soon as 
it was light enough to see to follow the trail. 

Sunday, 21. — Came to the Naama river, or creek, at twelve o'clock. 
Stopped and took dinner on a high bank. On this stream, on either 
side, is a quantity of timber. Where we crossed is a beautiful mill 
seat, fc. Traveled until dark, and encamped in the weeds all night. 

Monday, 22. — We started at daybreak; went until twelve o'clock; 
stopped on the east bank of White Breast Creek and took dinner. Here 
we found plenty of red plums, though not fully ripe; bnt my comrades 
dined heartily upon them. This was a good hit for me: when we came 
to eat dinner they could eat but little. By this means I made out to get 
nearly enough to satisfy hunger, for I had eaten nothing since the 
night before. We passed on until we came to English creek. Stayed 
all night. 

Tuesday, 23. — Started about sunrise without breakfast. Traveled 
until two o'clock. Crossed the Des Moines river at Eddyville. There 
I bought a loaf of wheat bread, a loaf of sweet cake and an apple pie, 
and went up on the side hill to the Indian Spring, and there we all took 
dinner. And this was a dinner mdeed, good enough for the king. I 
thought the best that I ever ate in my life ; but being so extremely hun- 
gry, it was delicious, &c. Came ten miles; stayed all night at Mos- 
quito creek; got two ears of green corn apiece and roasted them. 

Wednesday, 24. — This morning we started at daylight, then ten miles 
from the old agency of the Sacs and Fox. We traveled twenty-five 
miles beyond the agency, which made thirty'-five miles, then encamped 
for the night. Here we bought some bacon and half a loaf of warm 
wheat bread. 

Thursday. 25. — This morning some rain and lowery. We took a bite 
and then started for Nauvoo city; traveled until sunset, then camped in 
the woods about twelve miles from Nauvoo. We killed one grey squir- 
rel, and eat a little dry buffalo meat, and lay down in the rain all 
night. 

In the morning we got a few potatoes and boiled them. I killed two 
grey squirrels and the squaw burned off the hair and boiled them. 

Friday, 26. — We traveled all day in the rain, and at night reached 
the Mississippi river, and encamped on the bank, above the Potter 
house. 

I have seen much delightful country, but the prospect for bee hunting is 
not as good as I could wish. 

[N. B. The names of places and distances were procured from the 
Indians and are not accurate.] 

August 27. — The Quorum of the Twelve met with 



550 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1843 

the Saints in the Columbian Hall, Grand Street, New 
York, in conference. 

Minutes of a Meeting oj the Iwelve in New York City. 

Meeting opened by prayer. 

President Young arose and addressed the meeting in an interesting- 
manner upon the subject of the gathering, the building of the Nauvoo 
House and Temple. He spoke of the Priesthood, and said that it was 
a perfect system of government. 

In the afternoon the conference reassembled; and Elder Kimball 
spoke in parables — Gather in the wheat and the tares, thrash the wheat 
and the mill will blow away the chaff. He said an elder could get a 
people together and could get them to receive the work, if he did not 
whip the sects so much. He compared such elders to a shepherd who 
would call up a buck and a flock of sheep and hano them a little salt; 
and just as they begin to eat, hit him with a club across the head, and 
the sheep will run away. 

Elder George A. Smith followed and bore testimony of the work. 
Spoke of the elders spending their time in speaking about mysteries 
and speculating about things beyond the grave which they did not 
understand. Advised them to wait till God revealed hidden mysteries to 
them before they undertook to preach them to the people. * * * * 
Elder Smith counseled the elders to be wise enough to let such things 
alone, in other words to tell the good things of the kingdom which we 
have received and do understand, and wait patiently until the Lord 
takes off the veil of darkness. He spoke of the collegiate education he 
received from President Joseph Smith which was to preach short ser- 
mons and make, short prayers, which had done him much good in 
life. 

President Brigham Young said the scriptures had been mystified to 
that degree that the greatest divines of the day are as ignorant as the 
dumb ass concerning the things of God: comparatively they don't 
know their right hand from their left. We try to revere the scriptures 
and to make them so simple that the people can understand them. Place 
a man in this room who is ignorant of science, and take everything out 
that he can see and then ask him if there is anything in the room. He 
will say, No, only we two. I tell him there are millions of live animals 
in the room — that we even breath them; and I will show him by the aid 
of the microscope that there are live animals in a drop of water, which 
appear to be eight feet long; but he won't believe it until he &ees it 
through the magnifying glass. So with the unbeliever in revelation. 
He does not believe in God, in angels or in spirits, because he" cannot 



A.u. 1843 j HISTORY OF THE CHDKCH. 551 

see them; but let him have spiritual glasses, or obey the commandments 
of God, get the Spirit of God, and then he can see the truth. 

A hymn was then sung. 

Then several questions were asked as follows: 

1. Can any officer in any branch of the Church say that his word is 
law and shall be obeyed? 

Answer: He can say that his word is law; but does that make it so? 
Yes, if he has the law of God and delivers it: otherwise it is not. 

2. Is it right for a priest to be appointed to accompany a teacher to 
the house of each member, wheu his duty is set forth in the Cove- 
nants? 

Answer: Yes, any officer from a high priest to a deacon may visit 
the Church or members, and be set apart for this purpose, if the Church 
will receive it. 

3. Can a branch of the Church make by-laws on the principle of ex- 
pediency, which are not specified in any revelation? 

Answer: Yes, if they wish, they may make laws to stick their fingers 
into their eyes; but it is like the man who habituated himself to stick- 
ing his fingers into a knot-hole in a board partition every morning, 
until custom compelled him to do it; for having omitted it one morning 
he felt so curiously at the breakfast table, that he could not eat. He 
then bethought himself, went and put his finger into the knot-hole and 
returned with a good appetite, and ate a hearty breakfast.* 

Elder Young said that if elders or high priests are so situated that 
they cannot get word from the Prophet or the Twelve Apostles, they 
may get a revelation concerning themselves. The Twelve may get a 
revelation in any part of the world concerning the building up of the 
kingdom, as they have to establish it in all parts of the world. So any 
person can ask the Lord for a witness concerning himself, and get an 
answer, but not to lead the Church: that belongs to the head of the 
Church. 

Conference met at half-past ten o'clock, according to adjournment. 
Meeting opened by singing. Prayer by Elder Jedediah M. Grant. The 
congregation was then addressed by Elder Wilford Woodruff from II 
Peter 1: 20, 21: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture 
is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old 
time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were 
moved by the Holy Ghost. 

If the prophecies that had been fulfilled were fulfilled literally, in 
like manner would those prophecies which are still unfulfilled be ful- 

* The answer is not as direct as one might wish it to be, but certainly it is not 
favorable to the making of by-laws not "specified in any revelation." 



552 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH [A.D. 1843 

filled literally. The gathering of the Saints, the building up 
of Zion, the gathering of the Jews, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, 
the establishing of the Church and kingdom of God in the last days, 
and the preaching of the Gospel to all the world are events looked for 
by the Latter-day Saints. And notwithstanding these things are un- 
popular, and not looked for or believed in by the world, yet we feel en- 
couraged to persevere and press forward in assisting to accomplish 
these great and glorious things, with a firm belief that they will as 
truly be brought to pass and perfected as those things were which were 
prophecied in ancient days. He also bore testimony of the truth of the 
Book of Mormon, Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and of Joseph 
Smith being a prophet of God. 

Elder Kimball gave his testimony, when the meeting took a recess 
for two hours. 

In the afternoon, after Elder John E. Page had addressed the meet- 
ing, Elder George T. Leach was appointed to preside ov c r the Church 
in New York, in place of Elder L. R. Foster, who was about to remove 
to Nauvoo. After which several children were blessed, and the meet- 
ing adjourned until evening; at which time Elder Orson Pratt addressed 
the people in an edifying manner concerning the Book of Mormon, its 
history, what it was, &c; that it was a history of nearly one-half of the 
globe, and the people that inhabited it; that it gave a history and 
names of cities that have been of late discovered by Catherwood and 
Stephens; that it spoke or the establishing of our government; and 
what is more highly interesting, it reveals its final fate and destiny; so 
that, by reading the Book of Mormon, you can clearly see what will be- 
fall this nation, and what will be its final end.* 

* This statement of Elder Orson Pratt's views is doubtless faulty. The Book of 
Mormon does not predict what will befall our nation, the United States, nor "its 
final end." But it contains a conditional prophecy in relation to the two American 
continents. These continents are a promised land. They are given, according to 
the Book of Mormon, primarily to the descendants of the Patriarch Joseph, son of 
Jacob, as an inheritance, but the Gentile races are also given an inheritance in 
them with the descendants of Joseph. The whole land, however, is dedicated to 
righteousness and liberty and the people who possess it, whether of the house of 
Israel or Gentile must be a righteous people and worship "the God of the land, 
who is Jesus Christ." In that event God stands pledged to preserve the land and 
the people thereof, free from bondage of all other nations, and to bless them with 
very great and peculiar bressings, guaranteeing to them freedom and peaceful pos- 
session of the land forever. If the Gentile races shall observe these conditions 
they and their dhildren are to share in the blessings of the land in connection with 
the descendants of the Patriarch Joseph. But if they depart from justice, reject 
righteousness and Jesus Christ, then judgments of destruction decreed in the 
Book of Mormon, will overtake them until they are wasted away. This is the de- 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHUKCH. 553 

In that book you will find recorded the pure principles of the gospel of 
Jesus Christ, as taught by Himself on the continent of America, so 
plain that no two persons could disagree as to the points of doctrine set 
forth. He then bore testimony of the truth of Joseph Smith being a 
prophet of God, and that the Book of Mormon was true; also that the 
Church of the Latter-day Saints was the Church of God. He spoke 
about two hours; and after he closed five children were blessed, and 
then the people were dismissed. 

August 27. — I attended meeting at the stand at ten 
a, m., and made a few remarks; the following report of 
which is by Dr. Willard Richards : 

Address of the Prophet — Sidney Rigdon's Status — The Priesthood 
Expounded. 

Two weeks ago today something was said about Elder Sidney Rig- 
don, and a vote was taken to disfellowship him and to demand his 
license, on account of a report brought by Elder Hyde from Quincy. 

He [President Smith] then read a letter from Thomas Carlin to Sid- 
ney Kigdon as follows: 

Quincy, Illinois, August 18, 1843. 
Dear Sir: — Yours of the 15th instant was received, but not in time 
to answer it by return mail. You say that a Mr. Orson Hyde, on 
board of the steamboat Anaivan a short time since, was told by an 
officer of the boat that a Mr. Prentice, in the vicinity of Quincy, said 
that some person in high standing in the Church of Latter-day Saints 
in this place (Quincy) had an interview with you (me) said he would 
use all the influence that his circumstances would admit of to have 
Joseph Smith arrested and delivered into the hands of the Missourians, 
&c. This interview is said to have taken place at the time the first 
warrant was issued against Smith, and since the last warrant was issued, 
that the same person had written to you, (me) or had an interview with 
you, giving the same assurances. It has been publicly said in this 
town that I (Sidney Rigdon) was the person who had this interview or 
interviews and correspondence with you. Now, sir, it gives me pleas- 

cree of God respecting the western hemisphere, and is one of the important mes- 
sages that the Book of Mormon has to deliver to the present generation. See 
Book of Mormon II Nephi 1: 5-12; also Ether. 1: 42; III Nephi 20: H-20; III Nephi 
20: 27, 28; III Nephi 21: 11-25; also "New Witness for God Vol. Ill, pp. 314-323. 
But it will be seen that these prophecies are conditional, and therefore cannot be 
held to be predictions of what the final end of our nation, the United States and 
other nations of the American continents, will be, since it yet remains to be demon- 
strated whether they will abide or violate the conditions upon which they may 
possess the continents perpetually. 



551 HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. [A.D. 1845 

ure to be perfectly able to disabuse you, I have not seen you to my rec- 
ollection, nor had any correspondence with you, until the present, since 
1839; and in all the intercourse I have had with you I have always 
looked upon you as one of the most devoted followers of Joseph Smith 
and one of the pillars of the Church of Latter-day Saints. I never 
sought through the aid of any person to entrap Joseph Smith. A 
faithful discharge of my official duties was all that I attempted or de- 
sired. 

Very respectfully 

Your obedient servant, 

Thomas Carlin. 

[He, President Smith] then resumed: The letter is one of the most 
evasive things, and carries with it a design to hide the truth. Has any 
man been concerned in a conspiracy to deliver Joseph Smith to Mis- 
souri'? If so, who? 

He then read the 7th chap. Hebrews. Salem is designed for a He- 
brew term. It should be Shiloam, which signifies righteousness and 
peace: as it is, it is nothing — neither Hebrew, Greek, Latin, French, 
nor any other language. 

I say to all those who are disposed to set up stakes for the Almighty, 
You will come short of the glory of God. 

To become a joint heir of the heirship of the Son, one must put away 
all his false traditions. 

I prophesy and bear record this morning that all the combined pow- 
ers of earth and hell shall not and cannot ever overthrow or overcome 
this boy, for I have a promise from the eternal God. 

If I have sinned, I have sinned outwardly; but surely I have contem- 
plated the things of God. 

Respecting the Melchizedek Priesthood, the sectarians never professed 
to have it; consequently they never could save any one, and would all 
be damned together. There was an Episcopal priest who said he had 
the priesthood of Aaron, but had not the priesthood of Melchizedek: 
and I bear testimony that I never have found the man who claimed the 
Priesthood of Melchizedek. The power of the Melchizedek priesthood 
is to have the power of "endless lives;'' for the everlasting covenant 
cannotlbe broken. 

The law was given under Aaron for the purpose of pouring out judg- 
ments and destructions. 

The sectarian world are going: to hell by hundreds, by thousands and 
by millions. 

There are three grand orders of priesthood referred to here. 

1st. The King of Shiloam, (Salem) had power and authority over 



A.D. 1843] HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 555 

that of Abraham, holding the key and the power of endless life. 
Angels desire to look into .it, but they have set up too many stakes. God 
cursed the children of Israel because they would not receive the last 
law from Moses. 

The sacrifice required of Abraham in the offering up of Isaac, shows 
that if a man would attain to the keys of the kingdom of an endless 
life; he must sacrifice all things. When God offers a blessing or knowl- 
edge to a man, and he refuses to receive it, he will be damned. The 
Israelites prayed that God would speak to Moses and not to them; in 
consequence of which he cursed them with a carnal law. 

What was the power of Melchizedek? 'Twas not the Priesthood of 
Aaron which administers in outward ordinances, and the offering of 
sacrifices. Those holding the fullness of the Melchizedek Priesthood 
are kings and priests of the Most High God, holding the keys of power 
and blessings. In fact, that priesthood is a perfect law of theocracy, 
and stands as God to give laws to the people, adminstering endless lives 
to the sons and daughters of Adam. 

Abraham says to Melchizedek, I believe all that thou hast taught me 
concerning the priesthood and the coming of the Son of Man; so Mel- 
chizedek ordained Abraham and sent him away. Abraham rejoiced, 
saying, Now I have a priesthood. 

Salvation could not come to the world without the mediation of Jesus 
Christ. 

How shall God come to the rescue of this generation 1 ? He will send 
Elijah the prophet. The law revealed to Moses in Horeb never was re- 
vealed to the children of Israel as a nation. 

Elijah shall reveal the covenants to seal the hearts of the fathers to 
the children, and the children to the fathers. 

The anointing and sealing is to be called, elected and made sure. 

"Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither 
beginning of days nor end of life, but made like unto the Son of God, 
abideth a priest continually." The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the 
right from the eternal God, and not by descent from father and mother; 
and that priesthood is as eternal as God Himself, having neither begin- 
ning of days nor end of life. 

The 2nd Priesthood is Patriarchal authority. Go to and finish the 
temple, and God will fill it with power, and you will then receive more 
knowledge concerning this priesthood. 

The 3rd is what is called the Levitical Priesthood, consisting of 
priests to administer in outward ordinance, made without an oath; but 
the Priesthood of Melchizedek is by an oath and covenant. 

The Holy Ghost is God's messenger to administer in all those priest- 
hoods. 



556 HISTOKY OF THE CHURCH. [A..D, 1843 

Jesus Christ is the heir of this Kingdom — the only begotten of the 
Father according to the flesh, and holds the keys over all this world. 

Meu have to suffer that they may come upon Mount Zion and be. ex- 
alted rtbove the heavens. 

I know a man that has been caught up to the third heavens, and can 
say, with Paul, that we have seen and heard things that are not lawful 
to utter. 

Fifteen minutes past one, closed nay address. 

Sidney Rigdon said: "I never saw Governor Carlin but 
three times, and never exchanged a word with any man 
living on the subject.* I ask pardon for having done any- 
thing which should give occasion to make you think so." 

In the evening I attended council and prayer meeting 
with my brother By rum, Newel K. Whitney, Willard 
Richards, William Law and William Marks. 

Monday, 28.-^-1 was visited by a deputation of Potta- 
wattamie Indians. 

Tuesday, 29. — Elder Brigham Young paid a visit to 
James Arlington Bennett, Arlington House, Long Island, 
and baptized and confirmed him next day. 

I held a mayor's court and tried several cases. Brastus 
H. Derby was bound over to keep the peace for six 
months. Previous to the close of the trial he gave up his 
license as an elder to the Church Recorder. 

Wednesday, 30. — The Nauvoo Neighbor publishes an 
article from the Boston Bee, upholding the chartered 
rights of Nauvoo. 

Thursday, 31. — I commenced removing into the Nauvoo 

Mansion. 

(end op volume v.) 

* i. e. of betraying Joseph Smith to Missouri. 

Erratum: At page 504 a line is omitted in the third paragraph, fourth line. 
This should be inserted after the word "commanded; "—and because they did none 
other thing than that which they were commanded — 



HISTORY 0* THE CHURCH 



INDEX TO VOLUME V. 



Adams, Judge James of Spring- 
field, present at introduction of 
endowments at Nauvoo, 1-2; 
warns Prophet of impending ar- 
rest, 433. 

Adams, John Q., on right of peti- 
tion, 283. and note. 

Addresses to the Church of Latter- 
day Saints and the public gener- 
ally, Joseph Smith denounces 
John C. Bennett, 35-38. 

Affidavits, John C. Bennett ex- 
onerating Prophet from accusa- 
tion of teaching immorality, 11; 
ditto, 38; ditto of Wilson Law 
et ah, 3S-30; Lilburn W. Boggs 
of, Mo. 67; of City Council con- 
cerning John C. Bennett, 67-8; of 
Hyrum Smith anent Bennett, 
71-75; William Law anent Ben- 
nett, 75-77; of Prophet's attor- 
neys in Dixon arrest case, 476; 
Joseph Smith on Missouri 
troubles,493-5; of Caleb Baldwin, 
Lyman Wight et aL, 496-7. 

Arsenal, one ordered built at Nau- 
voo, 430. 



of disfellowship by First Pres 
idency, Twelve and Bishops 
18; begs not to be exposed, 18 
confesses to wickedness, 18-19 
an expelled Mason, 22, 32; ar- 
ticle on in Times and Seasons, 
78-82, and notes; deposed as 
chancellor ot: University, 120. 

Bennett, James Arlington, letters 
to the Prophet, ll2; letter of 
Prophet to, 156, et seq.; baptism 
and confirmation of, 556. 

Bogers, Lilburn W., ex-Gover- 
nor of Missouri, reporr of at- 
tempted assassination of, 9; 
assassination of reported in 
Quincy Whig, 14. 

Boston Weekly Bee ,on Mormonism, 
322; character sketch of the 
Prophet in, 406-8; judgment 
of on Mormonism, 518-28. 

Brayman, Mr., secret agent of 
Governor Ford, 493. 

Brewster, James Collins, revela- 
tions of, 214-15. 

Butterfield, Justin, counsel for the 
Prophet, Springfield trial, 215- 
223. 

C 



B 



Barnes, Lorenzo D., death of in 
England, 20; eulogy of, 319-20. 

Bennett, John C, evil designs of 
upon the Prophet, 4-5; ex- 
onerates the Prophet from 
teaching immorality, 11; re- 
signs his office as Mayor of 
Nauvoo, 12; statement of before 
City Council on the character of 
Joseph Smith, 13; notice given 



Call, Anson, on Joseph Smith's 
prophecy of removal of Saints 
to Rocky Mountains, 85-6, and 
note. 

Carlin, Governor, of Illinois, ac- 
knowledges proceedings against 
Joseph Smilth illegal, 91; duplic- 
ity of respecting Nauvoo affairs, 
li8-19. 

Carthage, Hancock count> , threats 
of mob violence at, 528. 

Charts, phrenological, of Joseph 



558 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



Smith, 52-5; of Willard Richards, 
58-60. 

Chicago Democrat, account of 
Prophet's arrest in, 448-9. 

Clark, Hyrum, appointed to take 
charge of emigration from Eng- 
land, 26. 

Clayton, William, succeeds Wil- 
lard Richards temporarily as 
clerk, 49; visit of to Governor 
Carlin, 118; messenger to warn 
Prophet of impending arrest, 
436; 438-9 et seq. 

Conferences, General, in England, 
9-10; at Manchester, England, 
21; special at Nauvoo, 136; at 
Boston, 268; at Augusta, Iowa, 
318; general at Nauvoo, April 
6th, 184b, 327 et seq.; special at 
Nauvoo, appointing elders for 
missions, 347-352; Batavia, N. 
Y., 352; at Kirtland, 352; at 
Vinalhaven, Fox Island, Maiue, 
360; special at Nauvoo, 369; min- 
utes of at Manchester, 418-19. 

Conover, Peter W. his account of 
relief expedition, 450-1; reveals 
plot against Prophet, 452-3. 

Cob, Col., Indian, speech of, 358-9. 

Council, High, Nauvoo, investi- 
gates charges against John C. 
Bennett, 21; minutes of, 119; case 
of Wilson Law and Nickerson, 
before, 280; decision of in Hoyt 
case, 311; Coltrin vs. Mat- 
thews, 371-2; of the Twelve et 
aZ., 131-2. 

Cowan, John D., assists the Proph- 
et, 299; appointed aid de camp, 
364. 

Cowdery, Oliver, Prophet's in- 
quiry concerning, 368. 

Court, Mayor's at Nauvoo, pro- 
ceedings in, 365-68; orders of in 
case of Joseph Smith, 474; ap- 
proves copies of evidence before, 
497. 



Derby, Erastus H., assists the 
Prophet when in retirement, 
90-95 ; blessings of Prophet upon, 
106-7. 



De Wolfe, Episcopal minister, 
preaches at Nauvoo, 427. 

Dixon, the Prophet at, 439. 

Duncan, Joe, a horse, 60. 

Dnnham,Jonathan,aids the Proph- 
et in seclusion, 90-109; appoint- 
ed superintendent to build 
arsenal, 430; starts on explora- 
tion expedition, 509; returns 
from expedition from the west, 
041 ; extracts from his journal — 
an expedition to the west, 542- 
549. 

E 

Editorials, limes and Seasons, on 
persecution, 98-103; on happi- 
ness, 134-36, and note; the Lions 
of the press, Joseph Smith, 274- 
7; On Nauvoo charter Wasp, 
306; limes and Seasons on an- 
cient records, 372-4; intro- 
ducing Nauvoo Neighbor, i>80- 
2; on proscription of the Jews, 
434; Nauvoo Neighbor, on recent 
Dixon arrest of the Prophet, 
507. 

Edwards, B. S. Esq., counsel for 
the Prophet, 221. 

England, mission in, summary of 
work, 308. 

Epistles, see Letters. 



Ford, Governor, inauguration of 
— against Nauvoo charter, 200. 

Foster, Robert D., charges pre- 
ferred against for abusive lan- 
guage, 14. 

G 

God, government of, 61-66; King- 
dom of, sermon on by the Proph- 
et, 256-9. 

Grant, Jedediah, M. questions the 
Prophet, 303. 



H 



Habeas Corpus, bill on in city 
council, 84; on habeas Corpus 
procedure, 87-8. 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



559 



Higbee, Elias, death of, 420-21, 
and note. 

Higbee, Francis M., compalins of 
having wickedness exposed, 49: 
statement of in denial of Ben- 
nett's charges, 77-78. 

Higbee, Chauncey L., excomrmmi- 
cated by High Council, IS. 

Hoge, -Joseph P., candidate for 
Congress, conversation of with 
Prophet, 518-21; acknowledges 
power Nauvoo charter on habeas 
corpus, 524. 

Huntington, Dimick B., elected 
coroner of Nauvoo, 18. 

Hyde, Orson, return of from Jeru- 
salem, 200; with the Prophet at 
Ramus, correction of 323-5; ap- 
pointed on mission to St. Peters- 
burg, 488. 



I 



Illinois, State Eegister, on the 
Dixon arrest of the Prophet, 
was it a political trick? 513-15. 

Indians, visit of to Prophet, 365; 
interview with Pottawattamie 
chiefs, 479-80. 



J 



Johnson, Benjamin F., remarks 
of the Prophet to, 391. 



K 



Kilburn, Edward and D. W., 
charged with designs of bring- 
ing mob to Nauvoo, 61. 

Kimball, Hyrum, accused by the 
Prophet of making evil insinu- 
ations, 12-13. 

Kimball, Heber C, takes initiative 
in organizing Young People's 
Association, 320 et seq.; remarks 
on Word of Wisdom, 428; dream 
of at Cincinnati, 515-16. 

Knight, Newel and Joseph, Proph- 
et's friendship for, 125. 

Knight, Joseph, Sen., esteem of 
Prophet for, 124-25. 

Knight, Vinson, death of, 84. 



Law, William, defense of the Saints 
by, 32-34; conversation with 
sheriff, meeting of the Prophet, 
confidential friends, S9-90. 

Legion, Nauvoo, trial and sham 
battle of, 3-5; officer's drill of, 
369; parade of, 383-4; script, 
copy of, 51S. 

Lyman, Amasa, appointed coun- 
cilor to the Prophet, 255. 

Letters, Joseph Smith to Horace 
R. Hotchkiss, 6-7; Joseph Smith 
to Mr. Bartlett, editor Quincy 
Whig, 15; High Council to the 
Church in Nauvoo and the Saints 
abroad, 15-17; Joseph Smith to 
Jeanette Richards, 40-41; Jos- 
eph Smith to Governor Carlin, 
42-44; Geo. Miller to Gov. Rey- 
nolds of Missouri, 46-4S; Gov. 
Carlin to Joseph Smith, 49-51; 
Horace R. Hotchkiss to Joseph 
Smith, 51: Joseph Smith to Ho- 
race R. Hotchkiss, 52; Joseph 
Smith to citizens of Hancock 
county, 55-56; Gov. Carlin to 
Joseph Smith, 82; Joseph Smith 
to Gov. Carlin, 83; the Prophet 
to Wilson Law, 93-5; Wilson 
Law to the Prophet, £6-7; Proph- 
et to Emma Smith, 103-5; Jos- 
eph Smith to Wilson Law, 105- 
6; James Arlington Bennett to 
the Prophet, 112-14; Wilson Law 
to Joseph Smith, 114-15; Emma 
Smith to Gov. Carlin, 114-15; 
Gov Carlin to Emma Smith, 
130-31; Emma Smith to Gov. 
Carlin, 132-4; the Prophet to the 
Saints at Nauvoo, baptism for 
the dead, 142-44; William Law 
to limes and Seasons,, 144; Fe- 
male Relief Society to Gov. Car- 
lin, 146-48; Prophet to the 
Church, baptism for the dead, 
148-53; Gov. Carlin to Emma 
Smith, 153-5; Prophet to James 
Arlington Bennett, 156-9; Brig- 
ham ¥oung to Times and Seasons, 
161-2; James Arlington Bennett 
to the Prophet, 162-4; William 



560 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



Clayton to Saints of Nauvoo, 
169-; James Arlington Bennett 
to J. G. Bennett, 170-2; Justin 
Butterfield to Sidney Rigdon 
opinion on requisition of Mis- 
souri for Joseph Smith, 173-9; 
Geo. D. Watt to Joseph Smith, 
184-5; the Prophet to Horace 
R. Hotchkiss, 195-6; Orrin P, 
Rockwood to the Prophet, 198; 
Gov. Ford to Joseph Smith, 
204-6; Justin Butterfield to Jos- 
eph Smith, 206; James Adams 
to the Prophet, 206; the Prophet 
to Josiah Butterfield, 250; John 
C. Bennett to Sidney Rig-don and 
Orson Pratt, 250-1; the Prophet 
to the Wasp, 259; Joseph Smith 
to Hon, R. M. Young, 266; Sid- 
ney Rigdon to Mr, Bryant, 273; 
the Twelve to the Church, 279- 
S0; Sidney Rigdon to Alfred E. 
Stoakes, 280-1; the Twelve to 
the Church, 293; Willard Rich- 
ards to Mr. Bagby, 304; Joseph 
Smith to Sidney Rigdon, 312-14; 
Sidney Rigdon to Joseph Smith, 
314-16; J. H. Reynolds to Newel 
K. Whitney, 352; Hugh L. Le- 
gare to Joseph Smith — Canard, 
363; H. R. Hotchkiss to Joseph 
Smith, 382; Brigham Young to 
the Church in Philadelphia, 413; 
Samuel C. Owens to Gov. Ford, 
422; Gov. Ford to Sheriff Rey- 
nolds, 492; Willard Richards to 
Brigham Y r oung et aL, 511-13. 

M 



senger to Gov, Ford, 484; report 
on movements at Springfield, 
500. 

Meetings, political, at Nauvoo, ad- 
dressed by Prophet, 19; at Nau- 
voo, Prophet denounces John C. 
Bennett at, 34-35. 

Mission, British, progress of work 
in, 6, 

Mission, Pacific Isles, 386; 404-5. 

Miller, William, Second Adventist, 
teachings of, 272 and note; his 
"Day of Judgment," 326 and note. 

Missionaries, list of special, 485. 

Mormon, Prophet's definition of, 
399. 

McFall, Gen. Hugh, denies signing 
military order, 164. 

N 

Nauvoo, division of into ten wards, 
119-20 and note; municipal seal 
of, 194-5; division of into ten 
wards, 198-200; charter of con- 
sidered iu Legislature, 294; re- 
peal of part of by the house, 
295; motto of, 305; industries of 
menaced, 436-8; 4th of July 
celebration at, 433, 488-92; 
public meeting at in relation to 
arrest of Joseph Smith, 474-6. 

Neighbor, a Nauvoo Weekly, 
paper, 304; first number of 
issued, 380. 

Newhall, J. B., lectures on Nau- 
voo, 431-2. 

Nye, G. N., Master Mason, Proph- 
et's remarks on, 370. 



Mack, Temperance, visits the 
Prophet, 119. 

Maid of Iowa, river boat, purchase 
of, 386, 417-18; expedition of 
to relief of the Prophet, 481-4. 

Markham, Col. Stephen, elected 
colonel iu Legion, 165; resigns 
as alderman, 288; messenger to 
warn tee Prophet of impending 
arrest, 436-438-9 et seq.; meeting 
of with the Prophet, 439; arms 
the Prophet, 443; reveals exist- 
ence of conspiracy, 451 2; mes- 



Olney, Oliver, trial of, 269. 

Ordinances, ou writs of habeas 
corpus, 57; ditto, 87*88; on re- 
turns of, 161; regulating pro- 
ceedings on, 185-192; on cur- 
rency, 297; concerning strang- 
ers in city, 457-8. 



Page, Elder John E., unwisdom 
of, 521. 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



361 



Pawpaw Grove, the Prophet at, 
444-5. 

Petitions, Nauvoo City Council to 
Governor Carlin, 68-70; Joseph 
Smith for writ of habeas corpus, 
461-65. 

Philadelphia, meeting of Apostles 
at, 527. 

Phelps, W. W., vade mecum, auth- 
thority of, 253 4. 

Pittsburg, Apostles at, 520-21, 
523. 

Pinery, lumber from for Temple, 
45-6; expedition to started, 57. 

Plates, Kinderhook, discovery of, 
372-S and notes. 

Powers, lawyer in the service of 
the Prophet, 89, 91, 95. 

Pope, Judge, decision on the 
Prophet's case at Springfield, 
223-231; modifications of his 
opinion, 244-45, 

Pratt, Orson, missing from Nau- 
voo, 60; denies connection with 
Johu C. Bennett, 167; exoner- 
ated by the Prophet, 252-255-6; 
rebaptism of, 256. 

Pratt, Parley P., arrival of at Nau- 
voo from England, 354. 

Pratt, Addison, sent to Society 
Islands, 404-5; 406. 

Prophet, see Joseph Smith; Pa- 
gan, remarks of on Temple, 
283-4. 

Proclamations of Mayor Nauvoo, 
310-11. 



rests Prophet, 439 et seq; re- 
fuses to submit to habeas corpus, 
proceedings at Nauvoo, 465. 

Revelation to Joseph Smith, mak- 
ing known unfriendliness of 
Hyrum Kimball, 12; on keys by 
which angelic administrations 
are made known, 267; on etern- 
ity of the marriage covenant writ- 
ten, 501-7. 

Relief Society ladies addressed by 
the Prophet, 19-21; 23-25; ditto, 
139-41. 

Resolutions, Nauvoo mass meet- 
ing passes, 70. 

Rich, Chas. C, in command of re- 
lief expedition, 486-8. 

Rigdon, Eliza, strange experience 
of, 121-22. 

Richards, Elder Levi, in charge of 
British Mission, 6. 

Rigdon, Sidney, Prophet's inter- 
view with on Nauvoo scandals, 
S, 46; reaffirms faith, 121, 123; 
reports conspiracy against the 
Prophet, 168; reconcilation of 
with Prophet, 270; alarmed by 
false reports, 369; suspected by 
the Prophet; explanation of, 
553, 4, 6. 

Rockwell, Oi*rin P., Prophet's 
blessing on, 125; reward offered 
for arrest of, 167; prophecy on, 
305. 

Roundy, Shadrach, the messenger 
to Governor Ford, 509. 



Qutncy Whig, account of assault 
on Boggs, 14-15; report of 4th 
of July celebration at Nauvoo, 
in, 49. 



R 



Ralston, attorney for the Prophet, 

89-91. 
Rockwood, Albert P., assists the 

Prophet in retirement, 90; his 
account of second relief expedition, 

454-6. 
Reynolds, agent of Missouri, ar- 



Saints, to receive endowments, 2; 

English, condition of at Nauvoo, 

25. 
Salem Advertiser and Argus article 

on Nauvoo and the Prophet, 

432-3. 
Scandinavians, in Illinois, labor 

among, 395. 
Seichrist, William, excommuni- 
cated from Baptist Church, 166. 
Shokoquon, visit of Prophet to, 

378. 
Signs, in heaven, 301, 304, 309 

and note, 310. 



5&2 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



Smith, Emma, meets the Prophet 
in his seclusion, 89 92, 95; senti- 
ments of the Prophet towards, 
107; illness of, 166, 167, 168, 182. 

Smith, Hyrum. the Prophet's re- 
gard for, 107-8: bankruptcy of, 
200. 

Smith, Samuel H., prefers charge 
against R. D. Foster, 14; Proph- 
et's appreciation of, 109. 

Smith, Geo. A., elected member of 
city council., 13. 

Smith, William, elected member 
of Nauvoo city council, 13; re- 
marks of in Illinois Legislature, 
Nauvoo charters, 201-4; retires 
from editorship of Wasp, 204. 

Smith, Joseph, the Prophet, inaug- 
urates endowment ceremonies 
at Nauvoo, 2, and note; suspects 
treachery of John C. Bennett, 
4-5; for moral reform in Nauvoo, 
8; denies complicity in Boggs 
affair, 15; editorial of on the gift 
of the Holy Ghost, 26-32; rides 
in Masonic procession, 41-2; sits 
for drawing of profile for litho- 
graph, 44; reviews Nauvoo 
legion, 56-57; predicts removal 
of Saints to Rocky Mountains, 
85 and note; arrest on charge of 
Governor Boggs Missouri, 86-7; 
reflections of on Missouri pro- 
cedure, 87; avodiance of offic- 
ers, 89; courage and calmness of 
while in seclusion, 97; exalta- 
tion of spirit of, 108 9; appreci- 
ation of friends, 124-28; sudden 
appearance of from seclusion, 
137; council of to the Church, 
138-9; attempted arrest of, 145-6; 
portrait of painted, 164-5; re- 
ward offered for arrest of, 167; 
advice of to new arrivals in 
Nauvoo, 180-181; resigns as 
editor of Times and Seasons, 
193; responsible to the state as 
Trustee-in-Trust, 197; petition 
of to Governor Ford to quash 
Carlin's writ, 201, 204-5; arrest 
of by Wilson Law, 209 ; depart- 
ure of for Springfield, 209-11; 
trial of at Springfield, 212-245; 



* explains prophetic calling, 215; 
views of on negro race, 217-11; 
discharge of from arrest, 238; 
return of to Nauvoo, 246-248; 
discourse of on the Kingdom of 
God, 256-9; on John the Baptist 
and the interpretation of script- 
ures, 260-2; studies German, 264, 
272, 292; views on civic policy, 
270-1; of the earth becoming 
Urim and Thummim, 279 and 
note; remarks of to workmen on 
Temple, 284-7; views of on con- 
stitution of power, 289; on sign 
of the Son of Man, 290-1: views 
of on blood atonement. 296; re- 
marks of on greatness, 298; 
dreams of, 301, 306; preaches at 
Ramus, 302; indictment found 
against in Missouri, 307; in- 
structions of at Ramus. Ill, 
323-7; remarks of on condi- 
tions in Iowa, 334; on the sec- 
ond coming of the Christ, 386- 
7; expounds the scriptures, 
339 et seq; remarks of to 
newly arrived Saints from Eng- 
land, 354 et seq; remarks of 
on death of Lorenzo D. Barnes, 
360-3; on salvation through 
knowledge, 387; on the value of 
aged men in council. 389; love 
of for Geo. A. Smith, 390; on 
the eternity of the marriage 
covenant, 390; prophecy of on 
Stephen A. Douglas, 393 4 and 
note, 395-8; reproves self-right- 
eousness, 401; characterization 
of himself, 401; on calling and 
election. 402-3; on temperance 
societies, 404; discourse of on 
gathering of Israel — Godhead, 
423-27; arrest of at Dickson, 
438 et seq; arrival of at Nauvoo 
under arrest, 45S et seq; speech 
of at Nauvoo while under arrest, 
465-73; speech of on 4th of July, 
489-90; address of at Nauvoo, 
love of fellowman, 498-500; dit- 
to, on marriage covenant, 510; 
on burden of his ministry, 516- 
18; assault of on Mr, Bagly, 
524; attitude of in politics, 526: 



HISTORY OF THE CHURCH. 



563 



remarks of at funeral of J udge 
Higbee, 529; explains election 
day troubles, 531; suspects Sid- 
ney Rigdon of treachery, 553-4: 
expounds Melchizedek Priest- 
hood, 554-5. 

Snow, Lorenzo, arrives in New 
Orleans with company of Saints, 
252; arrival of at Nauvoo with 
Saints, 353. 

Society, Young Gentlemen's and 
Ladies' Relief, 330, 322. 



Taylor, Father, Prophet in seclu- 
sion at home of, 169, 180. 

Taylor, John, becomes editor of 

Times and Seasons, 193; made edi- 
tor of the Wasp, 204. 

Tate, Elder H., labors of, 409. 

Town, David, rebukes the Proph- 
et's captors, 445. 

Tridhiana. a series of tracts, 318. 

Twelve, the, to labor in Illinois, 
160; council of in Nauvoo, 194; 
ditto at home of Brigham 
Young, 265; ditto at Prophet's 
home, 268; council of, at the 
Prophet's office, 369-80; record 
of the first, 412. 

W 

Wales, South, preaching in, 281-2, 
312. 



Walker, William, misleads Proph- 
et's enemies, 91. 

Walker," Cyrus, becomes counsel 
for the Prophet, 500; political 
speech of at Nauvoo, 521, 524. 

Wasson, L. D., report of from mis- 
sion field, S1-S4. 

Wasp becomes Neighbor, 304. 

Webb, Elder E. M. reports move- 
ments of John C. Bennett, 364. 

Weeks, William, appointed over- 
seer of work on Temple, 553. 

Whitney, Newel K., Prophet's 
friendship for, 10S. 

Wilson, Harnian T., sheriff , of Han 
cock county, 111., arrests the 
Prophet, 439, ct seq. 

Winchester, Elder Benjamin, sil- 
enced by the Twelve, 8-9, 403; 
investigation of, 409-12. 

Woodruff, Elder Wilford, furn- 
ishes powder to expedition go- 
ing to relief of Prophet, 474. 



Yalrome, meetings at, 387-SO. 

Young, Brigham, preaches at 
Nauvoo on providing labor for 
the poor, 44; sickness of, 196; 
proclamation of to Saints, 248-9; 
bond executed by, 414; creden- 
tials of, 416-17; starts on East- 
ern mission, 497; views on 
prophecy, 521-22 and note; bap- 
tizes and comfirms James Arl- 
ington Bennett, 556. 



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